Just In: Giants now top landing spot for Cubs power-hitting outfielder

Spread the love

Could He be slotted into the heart of the San Francisco Giants’ lineup next season? ESPN’s Jeff Passan has floated them as a potential destination for the slugging outfielder.

Atlanta Braves v Chicago Cubs

MLB insider lightly suggests SF Giants as landing spot for power-hitting outfielder

Jeff Passan points to Mookie Betts’ 12-year, \$365 million deal as a possible benchmark for Kyle Tucker. That could serve as just the opening framework for the left-handed slugger. Passan highlights the Phillies as a potential fit before also floating the Giants as an option.

Kyle Tucker's Walk Year Is Off to a Strong Start | FanGraphs Baseball

“The San Francisco Giants need a complement to Rafael Devers in the middle of the lineup.”

Only a handful of big-market teams have the resources to pursue Kyle Tucker. The Phillies and Giants are in that group, as are the Cubs. For Chicago, however, signing him would require surpassing their largest contract ever—Jason Heyward’s eight-year, \$184 million deal from 2015.

Cubs Kyle Tucker Projected to Land $500 Million Contract - Yahoo Sports

San Francisco has been one of the most aggressive spenders in recent years, committing more than \$500 million to Rafael Devers, Matt Chapman, and Willy Adames, along with long-term deals for Jung Hoo Lee and Logan Webb.

Unlike past offseasons, the Giants now have a defined core and are fighting for a playoff spot. Even if they miss the postseason, they can present free agents with a vision built around competitiveness and identity.

Willy Adames plans to play every day for San Francisco and bring the Giants  championships - NBC Sports

That said, their heavy commitments to a handful of stars affect financial flexibility. The front office must weigh whether adding another massive contract is the right path, since relying solely on free agency is costly and unsustainable.

Tucker would nonetheless transform any lineup. This season, he’s hitting .270/.381/.472 (139 wRC+) with 22 homers, 73 RBIs, and 89 runs over 585 plate appearances for the Cubs. His second-half OPS has dipped to .777, but that’s likely linked to a hand fracture.

While it’s still early for offseason speculation, Tucker is poised to be one of the most sought-after free agents this winter.

Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*