MLB insider lightly suggests SF Giants as landing spot for power-hitting outfielder

Could Kyle Tucker hit in the middle of the lineup for the SF Giants next season? Jeff Passan of ESPN lightly suggests them as a landing spot for the power-hitting outfielder.

MLB insider lightly suggests SF Giants as landing spot for power-hitting outfielder

Passan uses Mookie Betts' 12-year, $365 million as a template for Tucker. Perhaps, that might just be a starting point for the left-handed bat. Passan mentions the Philadelphia Phillies as a team that could use Tucker, then suggests the Giants:

"The San Francisco Giants need a complement to Rafael Devers in the middle of the lineup."

Jeff Passan

Of course, there are only a few big market clubs that can afford Tucker. The Phillies and Giants are part of that mix, and so are the Chicago Cubs. That said, the Cubs would need to go well beyond their franchise's previous high for a contract, which was Jason Heyward's eight-year, $184 million pact in 2015.

The Giants have been one of the most aggressive teams lately, investing over $500 million in Rafael Devers, Matt Chapman, and Willy Adames. Plus, Jung Hoo Lee and Logan Webb are part of that long-term core. They have a competitive core they can pitch to prospective free agents. That has not been the case in recent offseasons.

They have an identity, and they are competing for a playoff spot. Even if they fall a few games short of reaching the postseason, the front office might be in a position where it can offer the chance compete. These factors hold weight with free agents.

Having these long-term deals also impacts the team's financial flexibility. With so much money committed to four or five players, the front office will need to determine whether it is wise to add another lucrative contract to the books. The Giants cannot fill every roster hole through free agency. That is an expensive way to build a roster.

Regardless, Tucker would be a huge boost to any lineup. He is slashing .270/.381/.472 (139 wRC+) with 22 home runs, 73 RBI, and 89 runs in 585 plate appearances with the Cubs. Tucker has posted a .777 OPS in the second half, but that dip in production is likely due to a fracture in his hand.

It might be too early for the offseason rumor mill, but Tucker will be one of the most coveted free agents this winter.

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