Houston Astros right fielder Kyle Tucker. Kyle Ross-USA TODAY Sports

Astros' Kyle Tucker responds to failed arbitration case

By Marc Ray | Last updated 2/18/23

Kyle Tucker didn’t get the salary increase he wanted during an arbitration case against the Houston Astros.

During negotiations, the 26-year-old outfielder asked for a $7.5 million salary in 2023 but will make only $5 million after losing the case.

An arbitration case happens when a player negotiates with a team in an attempt to increase their salary. It can hinder a relationship between the player and the club if negotiations don’t go well.

During the Astros' spring training, Tucker spoke with the media about failed salary talks with the team.

Kyle Tucker on losing his arbitration case: “The outcome wasn’t really what we were hoping and I don’t think it was the right one..I wanted to fight for what my value was.” (Asked if this affects his relationship with the team) “No, I enjoy playing here..playing for the Astros.” pic.twitter.com/MPeClaEEov
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) February 18, 2023

“The outcome wasn’t really what we were hoping, and I don’t think it was the right one but it is what it is at this point. I just wanted to go out there and fight for what my value was,” Tucker said. “I enjoy playing here and being around the guys and playing for the Astros but there’s a little bit of difference in a view as a player and the value of it but it’s just [a] difference of opinion.”

Tucker is a key piece in the Astros’ success in the last few years. It would be a huge loss if the Astros can’t agree on new terms with their right fielder. In the 2022 regular season, he tied his home run career-high (30) and had a career-best 107 RBI. He racked up three homers, 10 hits and six RBI during the Astros’ championship playoff run. He won a Gold Glove and was an MLB All-Star for the first time last season.

The failed arbitration case doesn’t mean Tucker can’t agree on a new contract with the Astros. General manager Dana Brown said he is in negotiations with Tucker on a contract extension, according to the Associated Press. The Tampa native is eligible for free agency after the 2025 season.

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