The New York Mets have launched a serious bid to land one of the most coveted bats on the free-agent market, making a staggering offer to Chicago Cubs slugger Kyle Tucker. According to a report from ESPN's Jesse Rogers, the proposed contract would pay the outfielder an average of $50 million per season.
A Major Coup for the Mets Front Office
Securing Tucker would represent a significant victory for the Mets' baseball operations, led by President David Stearns. The front office has faced considerable criticism this offseason for allowing homegrown All-Stars Pete Alonso and Edwin Díaz to depart for the Baltimore Orioles and Los Angeles Dodgers respectively.
Speaking at a luncheon with reporters at Citi Field, Stearns acknowledged the fan frustration surrounding these high-profile exits. "I certainly understand that there have been points in this offseason that have been frustrating for our fan base," Stearns said. "We're not blind to that at all."
He defended the strategic direction, however, stating he is "very convicted" that the moves are necessary to build a consistent playoff team and a perennial World Series contender.
Reshaping the Roster for the Future
The Mets' pursuit of Tucker is part of a broader roster overhaul. The club has been active in free agency, signing closer Devin Williams to a three-year, $51 million deal, infielder Jorge Polanco, and reliever Luke Weaver. In a notable trade, they acquired Gold Glove second baseman Marcus Semien from the Texas Rangers.
These changes follow a disappointing 2023 campaign where the Mets finished 83-79 and missed the playoffs, despite owner Steve Cohen's projected spending of $431 million on payroll and luxury tax.
"What we've done previously has not been good enough. We all know that. I certainly know that. And we've got to do better," Stearns admitted candidly.
Competition and Conviction in New York
The Mets are not alone in the chase for Tucker's signature. The report suggests last year's World Series opponents, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays, are also finalists. Meanwhile, the Cubs' chances of retaining the player they acquired just last season appear diminished following their own major signing of third baseman Alex Bregman.
For Tucker, the move to New York would see him paired with fellow superstar Juan Soto, whom the Mets are counting on to improve his defence after dedicated offseason work. Stearns praised Soto's commitment, saying, "I think Juan can get materially better and I think Juan is the type of person and player when he puts his mind to something, generally achieves it."
Stearns, a native New Yorker and lifelong Mets fan, emphasised his long-term vision. "I am committed to doing this job in a way that I think truly sets us up for success for a sustained period of time," he stated, adding that his ultimate goal makes it easier to withstand "near-term sentiment" in a demanding sports city.
The Mets also expressed optimism about their young talent, name-checking catcher Francisco Alvarez, third baseman Brett Baty, and pitcher Nolan McLean as foundations for the future. Top prospect Carson Benge may even have a chance to make the opening day roster.
