The Los Angeles Dodgers have strengthened their roster again this offseason, reaching an agreement with outfielder Kyle Tucker on a four-year, $240 million contract, according to ESPN. The deal includes opt-out clauses after the second and third seasons, giving Tucker flexibility while further solidifying the Dodgers as early favorites for another World Series run.
“Kyle Tucker, the consensus best player available in free agency, agreed to join the Dodgers on Thursday,” ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez reported, citing sources. The signing comes just over a month after star closer Edwin Díaz also agreed to join Los Angeles, adding to an already deep roster.
While Tucker’s move narrows options for several teams across the league, it appears to have shifted momentum elsewhere in the free-agent market, particularly for infielder Bo Bichette.
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as the leading contenders to sign Bichette.
“The Phillies are the overwhelming favorites to sign infielder Bo Bichette,” Nightengale posted.
Philadelphia was not widely viewed as a frontrunner earlier in the offseason, but perceptions changed following a reported meeting between Bichette and the organization. MLB insider Jon Heyman indicated that discussions between the two sides were positive.
“Bichette/Phillies meeting is said to have gone very well,” Heyman wrote, noting Bichette’s admiration for the Phillies as a “first-class” organization. Heyman also cited factors such as the team’s roster, home ballpark, Don Mattingly’s connection to the organization, and spring training proximity as potential advantages.
The Toronto Blue Jays remain a possible suitor, but their chances of retaining Bichette may have been affected by their recent signing of Japanese star Kazuma Okamoto. While Toronto is not out of contention, league observers believe Philadelphia has gained ground by maintaining a strong relationship with Bichette throughout the offseason.
As the free-agent market continues to take shape following Tucker’s deal with the Dodgers, the Phillies appear positioned to make a significant move of their own in pursuit of Bichette.
