Mets Explore Kyle Tucker Trade Interest Ahead of 2026 Season

This article takes a look at the New York Mets’ reported interest in free-agent outfielder Kyle Tucker. He’s easily one of the most coveted players available right now.

With several big departures already shaking up the Mets this offseason, Tucker could become a cornerstone signing. The front office faces a classic dilemma: chase star power or keep some financial wiggle room?

Mets Check In on the Top Free Agent Available

Jon Heyman of the New York Post says the Mets have “checked in” on Kyle Tucker, who sits atop MLBTR’s free agent list this winter. Just hearing that has the fan base buzzing.

Tucker isn’t just another name—he’s a four-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger right in his prime. Every big-market team is at least kicking the tires.

Checking in doesn’t mean negotiations are underway, but it’s a clear signal. The Mets know what’s at stake and what Tucker will cost.

He’s likely to land a massive, long-term deal. Early guesses put his value at about 11 years and $400 million, a contract that would reshape any team’s future.

Payroll Flexibility Creates Opportunity

One reason the Mets can stay in the mix is pretty simple: the math. Their payrolls from 2023 through 2025 were sky-high—$346 million, $336 million, and $340 million.

Looking at 2026, New York’s projected payroll drops to around $294 million. That’s about $40 million in spending power left, and that’s without any creative accounting or trades.

President of baseball operations David Stearns has already made some noise. He added Jorge Polanco, Devin Williams, and Luke Weaver, and also brought in Marcus Semien.

But the Mets have lost some key names, too:

That opens up both payroll space and some real holes in the lineup, especially in the outfield.

Outfield Need Aligns with Tucker’s Skill Set

The Mets need help in left field after losing Nimmo. Right now, they’ve penciled in top prospect Carson Benge.

He’s just 22 and hasn’t played in the majors yet. Relying on him as an everyday starter for a contending team feels like a gamble.

Tucker would instantly steady the outfield and add some serious production to the lineup. He’s a lefty, but he actually hits left-handed pitching really well—think 133 wRC+ and .842 OPS.

So, platoon worries? Not really an issue here.

Bellinger Versus Tucker: Cost Versus Impact

Inside the organization, some prefer Cody Bellinger as a cheaper option. Bellinger’s versatility and potential to bounce back make him appealing, especially since the front office seems hesitant to hand out another huge contract to a starting pitcher.

But Tucker is just on another level. Bellinger might be a value play, but Tucker is as close to a sure thing as you’ll find.

The Mets could fit Tucker’s projected contract and still stay under their recent payroll peaks. That’s not nothing for ownership or the front office.

Competition Is Fierce Across the League

New York isn’t in this alone. The Yankees, Blue Jays, Orioles, and a handful of other big-market teams have all shown interest in Tucker.

He’s become the clear top prize of the offseason. With his durability, power, plate discipline, and postseason experience, Tucker draws plenty of attention.

For the Mets, this is bigger than just one player. They have to decide whether to make a huge splash or keep spreading their resources around.

This winter has already brought a lot of change. Kyle Tucker could easily become the face of a new era in Queens—if the Mets are ready to pay up.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Mets Have Checked In On Kyle Tucker