Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker discussed the status of his contract negotiations with the team in an interview with Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. According to Tucker, the two sides have engaged in discussions, but no formal offer has been made. Despite this, Tucker expressed his willingness to continue the talks, whether they happen now or in the future.
Tucker, 27, has established himself as a highly valuable player in the league. Over the past three seasons, he has hit 89 home runs and stolen 69 bases. Among all players, only 19 have hit more home runs during this time period, and none have stolen more bases than Tucker. His batting average of .278, on-base percentage of .353, and slugging percentage of .517 have contributed to a weighted runs created plus (wRC+) of 138, which ranks 16th among qualified hitters. Additionally, Tucker has received positive reviews for his defensive skills in right field.
Astros general manager Dana Brown has been vocal about his desire to sign contract extensions with the team’s players since taking on the role last year. The Astros have already secured long-term deals with pitcher Cristian Javier and second baseman José Altuve. Tucker, who is under club control until the end of the 2025 season, still has time to reach an agreement. However, as he gets closer to free agency, his value will likely increase.
Looking at recent contracts, the Astros will need to offer a significant amount to prevent Tucker from exploring the open market. Since 2015, only two position players with four to five years of service time have received nine-figure extensions. Bryan Reynolds received $100 million from the Pittsburgh Pirates, while Matt Olson received $168 million from the Atlanta Braves. For players with five to six years of service time, the price tag is even higher. Byron Buxton received a $100 million guarantee, while Xander Bogaerts got $120 million from the Boston Red Sox. Nolan Arenado, Rafael Devers, and Francisco Lindor each received contracts over $300 million.
If the Astros are motivated to secure Tucker’s services, they should act sooner rather than later. Unless Tucker’s performance declines significantly or he suffers a major injury in 2024, his value will continue to rise. However, based on Tucker’s comments, it seems that no agreement is imminent.
Last year, the Astros also attempted to negotiate a contract with Tucker but faced significant obstacles. Despite this, Tucker had an impressive season and earned a salary of $12 million for 2024, avoiding arbitration. Brown has indicated that the team will make Tucker an offer at some point, but it remains to be seen if it will be enough to secure his signature.
The Astros are currently facing financial challenges. Their Opening Day payroll for the 2021 season was $188 million, but this year it has increased to $240 million. Their competitive balance tax figure is currently at $255 million, well above the base threshold of $237 million. The team has never exceeded the tax threshold before, with the exception of 2020 when the taxes were waived due to the shortened season.
Looking ahead, the Astros have some financial commitments already in place for the coming years. They have over $100 million committed to contracts that extend through 2025, 2026, and 2027, including deals with Altuve, Javier, Yordan Álvarez, and Josh Hader. The team’s budget for next year is set at $117 million, but arbitration raises for Tucker and Framber Valdez could add an additional $40 million. There will also be raises for players like Chas McCormick and Jeremy Peña. Additionally, Ryan Pressly has a $14 million option that will vest if he makes 50 appearances this year.
Over the next two years, key players such as Tucker, Valdez, Pressly, Alex Bregman, and Justin Verlander will reach the end of their contracts. While this may create some financial flexibility for the team, it will also require them to find replacements for these important contributors, potentially through free agency. How the Astros navigate this situation will have a significant impact on the future of the club.
According to the Source mlbtraderumors.com