The New York Mets have opted for caution and long-term stability, distancing themselves from the race for coveted free agent Kyle Tucker. This decision, orchestrated by David Stearns, could leave the path clear for their cross-town rivals, the Yankees, to become the frontrunners to sign the star outfielder, making them even more formidable.
After missing the postseason, Stearns has indicated that the Mets need a “roster reshuffle” with a focus on run prevention, not necessarily a star-studded offense. The main reason for ruling out Tucker, whose value is estimated at $400 million, is not economic, but the saturation of players in that area and the need to take advantage of what they have and not spend for the sake of spending.
The Mets are going for a restructuring
For the Mets, the priorities go beyond a power hitter. They face serious personnel problems: Pete Alonso’s departure would leave a void in the infield, and the imminent departure of key players such as Edwin Diaz forces a rebuilding of the bullpen almost from scratch.
For these reasons, the Mets’ strategy will focus on acquiring players such as Jordan Hicks, Josh Hader or Michael King, and on developing younger players. The priorities in management are already clear and rather than looking for superstars, they prefer to consolidate a more united squad and a collective game over the individual.
The Yankees have a clear path
While the Mets take a step back, the New York Yankees emerge as the strongest contender for Tucker. The team has the money and the need to add a new player, so they are very keen on this market option that has emerged.
While the Yankees seem to have a clear path after the Mets’ departure for Tucker’s signing, there are other interested parties who want to make the move, and one of them is the Dodgers.
According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Dodgers have their sights set on the star outfielder, who will become one of the most coveted free agents of the winter after the World Series.
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