The MLB offseason continues to roll on, and while many teams have already made big moves, the New York Mets are still holding out to make their splash and bolster a roster hungry for redemption after a disappointing 2025 MLB season. Meanwhile, one of the most coveted MLB free agents remains on the market.
Kyle Tucker to the Mets? Anything is possible
Kyle Tucker has yet to decide where he’ll play next season, but MLB rumors about his destination keep swirling. As of today (January 13, 2026), Robert Murray of FanSided and other outlets report that the Mets have stepped up with a bold short-term contract offer worth $50 million per season (AAV).
“The New York Mets are pursuing superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker – and have made a short-term offer worth $50 million per season, sources say,” Murray wrote. “John Mincone first reported the Mets’ offer.”
This proposal is a surprise in its aggressiveness, though the Mets’ interest in Tucker isn’t shocking-especially after losing several key roster pieces. First baseman Pete Alonso signed with the Baltimore Orioles, closer Edwin Díaz headed to the Los Angeles Dodgers, and other core players like Brandon Nimmo and Jeff McNeil were traded away.
If there’s one franchise that can go big in MLB free agency, it’s the Mets. Just look back at the record-breaking $765 million contract they handed to Juan Soto. Despite the departures, president of baseball operations David Stearns has remained aggressive-acquiring relievers Devin Williams and Luke Weaver, trading for Marcus Semien, and signing Jorge Polanco to stabilize the lineup.
The Mets outfield could ultimately be anchored by former top prospect Carson Benge, a first-round MLB Draft pick, but questions remain about his readiness for a full-time big-league role.
Reports indicate that New York has intensified its pursuit of Kyle Tucker in recent days, holding multiple video meetings and discussing a three-year deal in the $120-140 million range, potentially higher. Other top MLB suitors include the Toronto Blue Jays and the Dodgers, but the Mets’ high-AAV, short-term structure stands out-offering Tucker massive upfront earnings and future opt-out flexibility.
This could be the move that redefines the Mets’ offseason. With Soto already in the fold and Stearns’ history of bold decisions, landing Tucker-a left-handed power hitter, elite on-base threat, and Gold Glove-caliber defender-would instantly make the 2026 New York Mets legitimate World Series contenders.
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