MLB insider views SF Giants as a darkhorse candidate for power-hitting outfielder

The SF Giants need to add a power-hitting outfielder this offseason, and could be in the mix for the top player on the market. According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Giants are viewed as a darkhorse candidate for Kyle Tucker.

MLB insider views SF Giants as a darkhorse candidate for power-hitting outfielder

In speaking with general managers around baseball, Nightenale lists the Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Toronto Blue Jays are viewed as the top landing spots for Tucker. He goes on to add that the Blue Jays are a perfect fit.

However, the Giants could be a surprise suitor. Darkhorse could mean that the Giants are an unexpected suitor or it could just simply mean that Nightengale is in the dark with how the Giants operate.

Since Buster Posey took over the front office, there have been very few leaks. There were no rumors of substance connecting the Giants to Willy Adames before he landed a seven-year deal. Only a handful of people are even privy to how they operate, so darkhorse could be used to account for that.

On the other hand, Nightengale wonders out loud whether the Giants can absorb another nine-figure deal. They have added three within the past 14 months, with Adames, Matt Chapman, and Rafael Devers.

They also have Jung Hoo Lee in the midst of a six-year, $113 million pact. This deal includes an opt-out after the fourth season.

The Giants have very quickly put together a costly, but recognizable core of quality players. Not surprisingly, they saw an uptick in attendance this year. That should give the ownership group the motivation they need to spend, but with the lockout looming, that could alter their plans.

Adding Kyle Tucker would certainly give the Giants another middle-of-the-order bat. He slashed .266/.377/.464 (136 wRC+) with 22 home runs, 73 RBI, and 91 runs in 597 plate appearances with the Chicago Cubs in 2025. This includes a 14.6 percent walk rate, 14.7 percent strikeout rate, and .198 ISO.

It was something of a down year for Tucker, as he battled a hairline facture in his right hand that seemingly sapped him of his power in the second half. Nevertheless, he has a consistent and reliable track record of performance. Plus, Tucker has the power and contact skills that the Giants, or any front office, desires.

If the Giants do not pursue Tucker, the Dodgers are expected to be in the mix. That may be the motivation other teams need to put out a competitive offer for the four-time All-Star.