The Toronto Blue Jays are the frontrunners to sign star outfielder Kyle Tucker in free agency, according to reports. Tucker, who recently visited the team's spring training facility, is expected to command a major contract after a solid 2025 season with the Chicago Cubs. While the Los Angeles Dodgers are also seen as a strong fit, the market remains quiet as the 2026 season nears.
Kyle Tucker, the premier free-agent outfielder this offseason, has drawn strong interest from the Toronto Blue Jays, who remain the favorites to land him, sources told MLB.com's Mark Feinsand. The 28-year-old from Tampa visited Toronto's spring training facility in Dunedin, Florida, in early December, signaling serious pursuit. Over eight major league seasons, Tucker boasts an .865 OPS, 147 home runs, and 490 RBIs, with his 25.2 fWAR since 2020 ranking 11th among players—all of whom have signed long-term extensions.
In 2025, Tucker played for the Chicago Cubs after being acquired from the Houston Astros, posting a .266/.377/.464 slash line with 22 homers, 73 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases in 136 games. Despite what some call an "unsatisfying" year, analysts like Jon Heyman of the New York Post project a $300 million-plus deal, potentially falling short of earlier $400 million estimates. Heyman noted Tucker's elite status, as one of only five players—including Mookie Betts, Aaron Judge, Juan Soto, and José Ramírez—to post at least 4 WAR over the past five seasons.
The Blue Jays, fresh off a 2025 World Series run, have been aggressive this winter, signing pitchers Dylan Cease, Cody Ponce, and reliever Tyler Rogers. They are also linked to a reunion with shortstop Bo Bichette and free-agent third baseman Alex Bregman. However, MLB insider Robert Murray cautioned against overlooking the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers. "I still don't think we can rule out the Dodgers here," Murray said on the Baseball Insiders podcast. "They love going after the big fish... them and the Jays make a whole lot of sense."
Tucker's market has been unusually quiet into January, but with the 2026 season approaching, a decision looms that could reshape contenders.
