Mets and Yankees have checked in on top free agent, causing potential bidding war between two New York squads

Jon Conahan

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Mets and Yankees have checked in on top free agent, causing potential bidding war between two New York squads image

A potential New York bidding war could be forming around Kyle Tucker, and if the market goes that way, the New York Yankees and New York Mets could find themselves battling it out. 

Early predictions had Tucker in the $400 million range, but as the offseason has unfolded, that no longer feels safe to say, and that matters for two teams that are always willing to spend some money when it matters most.

Tucker is still viewed as one of the best players in baseball. He impacts the game on both sides of the baseball, can really swing it, and fits most lineups. 

For the Yankees, he’d provide another middle-of-the-order presence with Aaron Judge. For the Mets, he’d represent another franchise bat to pair with Juan Soto.

Both New York teams have shown a willingness to spend, and both could use a player of his caliber after disappointing years a season ago.

According to Jon Heyman, both squads have checked in on the left-handed hitting slugger.

“Though he might not reach the early $400M predictions after his typically excellent but ultimately unsatisfying platform season with the Cubs, the all-around star (he, Mookie Betts, Aaron Judge, Juan Soto and José Ramírez are the only players to post a 4 WAR the past five seasons) should still be worth $300M-plus based on past deals and comps. But if he doesn’t mind resetting, the Dodgers could become an option for a short term and high AAV. The Yankees and Mets (and all big-market teams) have checked in, but Cody Bellinger’s versatility and lower price tag make him the New York mark — at least for now,” he wrote.

If Tucker’s asking price continues to come down, don’t be surprised if New York City turns into the center of his free-agency race.

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Contributing Writer