Free agent outfielder Kyle Tucker. David Banks-Imagn Images

Los Angeles Dodgers stun baseball universe with Kyle Tucker signing

By David Hill | Last updated Jan 16, 2026 7:40 AM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers added yet another star on Thursday night.

ESPN's Jeff Passan reported that the Dodgers agreed to terms with outfielder Kyle Tucker. Jesse Rogers, also from ESPN, reported that Tucker will receive a four-year, $240 million contract with an opt-out after the second year.

Tucker had been considered the top player available in the 2025-26 free agent class. He had posted a .266/.377/.464 batting line over his 597 plate appearances, hitting 22 homers and 25 doubles while stealing 25 bases. Those numbers were skewed due to an injury plagued second half as Tucker dealt with a fractured right hand and a strained calf, contributing to a .231/.360/.378 batting line with five homers and six doubles in 174 plate appearances after the All-Star Break.

Los Angeles Dodgers fill final hole with Kyle Tucker

The Dodgers entered the offseason with two glaring needs. Closer had been a revolving door since Kenley Jansen left in free agency during the 2021-22 offseason. Edwin Diaz, who signed a three-year, $69 million contract, should provide a steady presence in the ninth inning.

Kyle Tucker's four-year, $240 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers includes opt-outs after the second and third seasons, sources tell ESPN.

An enormous windfall for the best free agent available. And the champs get even better. @ByRobertMurray was on top of the money.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) January 16, 2026

Tucker fills the Dodgers other need in the corner outfield. Left fielder Michael Conforto was a disappointment in 2025, posting a woeful .199/.305/.333 batting line with 12 homers and 20 doubles over his 486 plate appearances. Right fielder Teoscar Hernandez had what could be considered his worst season since establishing himself as a regular at the major league level. He produced a .247/.284/.454 batting line in his 546 plate appearances, hitting 25 homers and 29 doubles.

A Gold Glove left fielder in 2022, Tucker gives the Dodgers another dynamic all-around player in the middle of their lineup. The Dodgers already dangerous lineup is that much deeper, furthering their status as a favorite to win the World Series for a third consecutive year.

David Hill

Based in the mountains of Vermont, Dave has over a decade of experience writing about all things baseball. Just don't ask his thoughts on the universal DH.

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