The Los Angeles Dodgers may have their eyes on one of baseball’s premier talents, but signing Kyle Tucker won’t be easy. The Cubs took a calculated risk acquiring Tucker from the Astros knowing he hits free agency at the end of the 2025 season. So far, it’s paid off — Chicago sits atop the NL Central at 30–20, with Tucker playing a pivotal role.
Tucker, a three-time All-Star and Gold Glove winner, is slashing .278/.387/.552 with 12 home runs, 35 RBIs, 14 stolen bases, and a 164 OPS+ through 50 games. His $16.5 million salary for 2025, settled to avoid arbitration, looks like a bargain for a player poised to land a contract well north of $600 million this winter.
Los Angeles Dodgers Linked to Kyle Tucker, But Face Fierce Competition in Looming Bidding War
“Following Juan Soto’s record-setting $765 million deal in free agency and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s $500 million extension, Tucker is expected to land a nine-figure contract that starts with a 6,” wrote The Athletic’s Jim Bowden. And several big-market teams — including the Dodgers, Yankees, Phillies, and Cubs — are expected to pursue him aggressively.
The Dodgers, who already have one of baseball’s deepest rosters, have struggled with outfield depth this season. Michael Conforto’s slump (.164 average) and IL stints for Teoscar Hernández and Tommy Edman have exposed vulnerabilities. Tucker would instantly stabilize right field and bolster the lineup heading into 2026.
However, L.A. isn’t alone. Chicago wants to keep Tucker and is reportedly willing to do “whatever it takes.” The Phillies — aggressive spenders with an MVP core — could push the price tag even higher.
Tucker has expressed interest in staying in Chicago, but with so many suitors and a mega-deal looming, the Dodgers will need more than money to win this chase. They’ll need perfect timing — and a compelling vision.