MLB Makes Kyle Tucker Announcement on Tuesday

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Jan 20, 2026 4:54 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers continued to flex their seemingly unlimited payroll flexibility last week, reportedly agreeing to a deal with outfielder Kyle Tucker in MLB free agency.

Tucker will report for the 2026 season with the second-highest average annual value in league history, trailing only two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani.

He is set to make $240 million over the next four years, though he has the option to opt out and re-enter free agency after two seasons if he chooses.

There is a reason Tucker commanded such a massive contract, given his impressive track record as a four-time All-Star, two-time Silver Slugger and Gold Glove Award winner.

Last year with the Chicago Cubs, Tucker posted a .266 batting average, .377 on-base percentage, .841 OPS, 22 home runs and 73 RBIs across 136 games.

He continued to play excellent defense and helped lead Chicago to the postseason, proving his ability to impact games on both sides of the ball.

With Los Angeles, he joins a roster where October baseball is expected, yet his contributions will remain vital in pushing the Dodgers toward a potential three-peat.

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker (30) during the 2025 MLB season.© David Banks-Imagn Images

Tucker’s efforts were recognized by MLB Network in this year’s edition of the Top 100 Players Right Now list. He earned a spot at No. 21, one slot ahead of his new teammate Freddie Freeman, further highlighting how the Dodgers have built themselves into the team to beat.

Last year, Tucker ranked No. 14, and while the seven-spot decline reflects the injuries that slowed him in the second half of 2025, his placement still underscores his standing among the league’s elite.

MLB shared the announcement on X, highlighting both Tucker and Freeman. “New @Dodgers teammates Kyle Tucker and Freddie Freeman rank back-to-back as @MLBNetwork’s #Top100RightNow rolls on with Nos. 30-21," the league wrote on Tuesday.

New @Dodgers teammates Kyle Tucker and Freddie Freeman rank back-to-back as @MLBNetwork’s #Top100RightNow rolls on with Nos. 30-21. pic.twitter.com/3zOT4ESgDO
— MLB (@MLB) January 20, 2026

Kyle Tucker’s Arrival Strengthens Dodgers’ Bid for Three-Peat

Tucker’s journey through the big leagues adds important context to his arrival in Los Angeles.

The 29-year-old debuted with the Houston Astros in 2018 and quickly established himself as one of the most complete outfielders in the game, combining power, defense and baserunning. His time in Houston included a World Series championship in 2022, cementing his reputation as a player who thrives on the biggest stage.

After eight seasons in MLB, Tucker now fills a key need for the Dodgers in the corner outfield. He is not expected to be the centerpiece of the roster, but rather a major contributor — a role he has consistently excelled in throughout his career.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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