The Toronto Blue Jays are apparently going all-in on Kyle Tucker.
Toronto has shown interest in Tucker, but recently, it’s been reported that the New York Mets offered a deal of around $50 million per season. The Dodgers have also shown interest in the star slugger on a short-term deal.
However, Blue Jays insider Ben Nicholson-Smith of Sportsnet said the Mets and Dodgers should be scared about Toronto’s interest.
“Look, they have had a great offseason so far, and they have a chance to make it even better. They are in this; the Mets and the Dodgers should be scared. But, simultaneously, nothing in free agency is done until it’s done,” Nicholson-Smith said of the Blue Jays’ pursuit of Tucker on Sportsnet.
It’s a bold comment from Nicholson-Smith, who’s usually not one to make outlandish statements like this. So, whether or not he knows something about Toronto and Tucker’s negotations which could be good news for the Blue Jays.
If Toronto can land Tucker, it would be a major addition to their already solid roster. It could also very well push the Blue Jays over the top to try to bring the World Series north of the border again.
Tucker hit .266 with 22 home runs and 73 RBIs last season with the Chicago Cubs.
Blue Jays Have Offer to Tucker
Tucker’s free agency seems like it could be coming to an end soon.
ESPN’s Jesse Rogers reported Tucker has been offered a short-term deal by the Mets. It’s believed to be worth $50 million per season. Meanwhile, Rogers added that the Blue Jays have also offered Tucker a long-term contract.
“Tucker, who turns 29 on Saturday, continues to field offers after he declined a $22.025 million qualifying offer by the Chicago Cubs following the season,” the article read. “Sources told ESPN that the Toronto Blue Jays have also made a long-term offer to Tucker, who is one of the best left-handed hitters in the league.”
With Tucker having offers on the table, the star outfielder could very well make a decision on his future soon. Perhaps Toronto wanting to go long-term with him could push it over the edge. But, regardless, the Blue Jays’ interest in him is legit.
Tucker is a four-time MLB All-Star.
Toronto Having Active Offseason
The Blue Jays have been one of the most active teams this offseason, and they may not be done.
ESPN MLB insider Jeff Passan called the Blue Jays an offseason winner and said the team is still looking to make another move.
“Urgency is paramount in Toronto after the Blue Jays’ heartbreaking World Series loss to the Dodgers. … And the Jays aren’t necessarily done. They’re firmly in the mix on Kyle Tucker. And still the likeliest team to give him the big-money, long-term deal he’s seeking,” Passan wrote.
“They might get priced out of a Bichette return, but they haven’t closed the door on it. With more than $85 million due off their books next winter, the Blue Jays have not waited around for the market to come to them. They were aggressive when necessary to fill their targeted needs.”
If the Blue Jays land Tucker, they would be one of the World Series favorites.
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