Why MLB teams like Kyle Tucker but hesitate to commit major money in the 2025 free agency cycle despite his strong professional resume.

MLB rumors around Kyle Tucker and Cody Bellinger don’t seem to be stopping, and a new big-spending team has joined the race.

Following a strong season in the Bronx, All-Star outfielder Cody Bellinger opted out of his contract with the New York Yankees at the end of last season.

Fresh off their first AL pennant since 1993 and a Game 7 loss in the World Series to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Toronto Blue Jays made the first true splash of the offseason on the open market by signing right-handed starting pitcher Dylan Cease to a seven-year, $210 million deal that includes deferrals.

While some experts have predicted Kyle Tucker may earn a $400 million deal this winter, MLB executives doubt it will happen for one major reason.

Now this would be a nifty gambit: The Yankees lose Soto, rebuild around new ace Max Fried, win 94 games – and then land Tucker a year later. Heck, even a $450 million deal would ensure the Yankees got Tucker for $97 million less than Soto alone.

With Kyle Tucker being from Tampa Bay, the Rays have been considered a dark horse candidate to sign him in free agency.

When the Chicago Cubs traded for Kyle Tucker last winter, they always knew this was a possibility. Tucker played last season on the final year of his contract.