The Los Angeles Dodgers didn’t quite get what they were expecting from Michael Conforto when they signed him, and now they need to go find a replacement that will give them what they want. Kyle Tucker could be that man, but he’s projected to make around $427 million on his next contract.
Fansided’s Mark Powell believes that won’t be a problem, however. He thinks the Dodgers can afford Tucker by employing their latest tactic to get superstar free agents once again: deferred money.
MORE: Orioles linked to $53 million All-Star ace, would create 1-2 punch with Trevor Rogers
“As of last February, the Dodgers deferred money on the books reached over $1 billion. Ownership doesn't mind that, as they rake in money hand over first while stars like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and more are on the roster. They can afford to pay these stars over a longer period of time, as the memories they make on the field will fuel the payroll for generations…Assuming Tucker is in search of a long-term contract that will make he and his family comfortable for decades, why not sign a deferred contract? Tucker could live comfortably in sunny Los Angeles for 20-plus years,” Powell wrote.
This past season, Tucker slashed.266/.377/.464/.841 with 25 doubles, 22 home runs, 73 RBI, and 25 stolen bases in 136 games played. He would be a massive upgrade for the Dodgers and would give them one of the best outfields in the National League.
If the Dodgers could use deferred money once again and be okay with paying well over a billion dollars in the decade after next, then it could be very easy for them to attract Tucker. Playing for the back-to-back champs would be a no-brainer for any superstar.
However, if the Dodgers want Tucker, they’ll need to act fast. Other teams want him and will offer the money up front. Hopefully, they realize this and get to work.
MORE MLB NEWS