The New York Mets are expected to pursue an outfielder this offseason, and given owner Steve Cohen’s willingness to spend and the club’s consistently high payroll, they are once again being linked to elite free agents. Chief among them is top star, who has been connected to New York throughout the winter.
According to New York Post reporter Jon Heyman, the Mets have recently reached out to Tucker’s representatives to explore a potential deal. Tucker, a four-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger Award winner, is reportedly seeking a contract valued around $400 million.
Should the Mets pursue Tucker? After trading Brandon Nimmo and seeing Cedric Mullins depart in free agency, New York’s outfield depth is thin beyond Juan Soto. The team also moved on from Jeff McNeill, who had been viewed as a possible outfield option for the 2026 season.
It appears inevitable that the Mets will either sign or trade for an outfielder—it’s simply a question of timing, target, and financial commitment. While Tucker remains the biggest name, other notable alternatives include Cody Bellinger and Harrison Bader.
Heyman’s report was later supplemented by MLBTradeRumors.com, which provided additional insight into how the Mets may approach spending this offseason.
“If Stearns is looking to make a major statement, there’s no bigger move than signing the premier free agent available. However, the Mets are reportedly reluctant to commit to a long-term deal for a starting pitcher this offseason. Additionally, Heyman suggests that Tucker’s expected price tag is the reason Cody Bellinger continues to be viewed as New York’s top outfield option.”
Even if Bellinger remains the preferred choice, both things can be true in the Tucker sweepstakes: the Mets can remain serious contenders while leaning toward Bellinger due to his more manageable contract demands.
What Is Kyle Tucker’s Contract Projection?
The prevailing belief is that Kyle Tucker will secure the largest free-agent deal in MLB history. SportsGrid.com recently released projections for the top remaining free agents, placing Tucker at the top with an estimated contract of 10 years worth $430 million.
2025 Stats: 136 games, .266/.377/.464 slash line, 22 home runs, 73 RBIs, 25 stolen bases, 136 wRC+, and 4.5 fWAR
Contract Projection: 10 years, $430 million (average annual value of $43 million)
A key factor fueling this rumor is the Mets’ clear opening in the outfield, which could be filled by Kyle Tucker. As things stand, Carson Benge is projected to be the Opening Day starter in left field.
While there is still plenty of time left in the offseason—and it may ultimately be more realistic for New York to land Cody Bellinger instead of Tucker—both star outfield pursuits are shaping up to be among the most closely watched storylines of MLB’s hot stove period.