Report: Mets Offer 3 Years, $140M to Kyle Tucker; Jays Key to Length
The numbers are in. A new report from The Athletic details New York’s specific “high AAV” strategy, leaving the door wide open for Toronto to win on stability.
TSP Rumor Tracker: Jan 13 Update
We are tracking multiple reports (John Mincone, Will Sammon) that paint a clear picture of the offer landscape.
The Mets Offer:
- Terms: 3 Years.
- Total Value: $120 Million – $140 Million.
- AAV: $40M – $46.6M (Comparable to Judge/Soto).
The Context:
- Blue Jays: Expected to offer max length (10+ Years).
- Deadline: Decision likely before Saturday (Tucker turns 29).
The Kyle Tucker contract rumors have shifted from vague speculation to concrete numbers. Following initial whispers of a high-AAV offer from New York, established beat reporters are now confirming that the Mets are attempting to lure the star outfielder with a massive short-term payday.
The Athletic: 3 Years, $140 Million
In a report published Tuesday afternoon, Will Sammon of The Athletic clarified the Mets’ strategy. According to league sources, New York is operating with “discipline” but is willing to pay a premium for a shorter commitment.
“If the New York Mets are in the range of offering $120 million to $140 million for three years to free-agent outfielder Kyle Tucker… the question is whether that will be enough.” — Will Sammon, The Athletic
This structure would place Tucker’s Annual Average Value (AAV) between $40 million and $46 million. Sammon notes this would slot Tucker firmly between Aaron Judge ($40M AAV) and Juan Soto ($51M AAV). The report also confirmed that the Mets have held “multiple video meetings” with Tucker within the last week, highlighting their aggressive pursuit to fill the hole left by the departures of Brandon Nimmo and Pete Alonso.
The Tweet That Started It
Sammon’s report aligns closely with earlier information shared by insider John Mincone, who first broke the news of the high-AAV strategy earlier in the day.
“The Mets have an offer on the table to Kyle Tucker at 50mm AAV. Looking to have a decision made between Mets, Blue Jays, and Dodgers in the next day or two.” — John Mincone (@JMincone)
While Mincone’s figure ($50M) is slightly higher than the range cited by Sammon ($40M-$46M), both sources agree on the core dynamic: New York is betting on cash flow, while Toronto is betting on security.
Statistical Context: Why Pay $40M+?
Why are teams willing to break the bank? Tucker enters this offseason as arguably the most complete hitter available. Sammon notes that Tucker ranks 10th among all position players in fWAR since 2021.
| Stat Category | Kyle Tucker (Last 3 Seasons) | MLB Rank |
|---|---|---|
| OPS+ | 150 | Elite |
| Slash Line | .278 / .380 / .511 | Top Tier |
| fWAR (Since ’21) | 23.4 | 10th Overall |
TSP Analysis: The Birthday Deadline
A crucial detail mentioned in The Athletic report is the calendar: Kyle Tucker turns 29 this Saturday. Sources suggest a decision could come “as early as this week,” likely before his birthday festivities.
Can Toronto Win?
If the Mets cap their offer at 3 years, the Blue Jays have a massive opening. Even if Toronto’s AAV is lower (e.g., $32M), a 10-year deal guarantees Tucker $320 million—more than double what the Mets are offering in total guaranteed money.
For a player looking to secure his family’s future for generations, the Toronto offer is mathematically superior, provided he is willing to commit to Canada for the decade.
Stay updated with our Daily Blue Jays Tracker as we await the final decision this week.