The Red Sox need to pivot their superstar plans now that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. has committed to Toronto with his massive 14-year, $500 million deal. Boston had reportedly eyed Guerrero as a potential trade target or free agent acquisition, but those dreams are officially dead.
So where do they turn next? FanSided’s Chris Landers suggests Kyle Tucker should be their new target.
“Of course, there is one other bonafide star set to hit free agency,” wrote Landers. “He might not be as clean a fit as Vladdy would’ve been, and it would create some awkward questions if Anthony hits the ground running as a corner outfielder in Boston at some point this summer. But if there’s a player worth making it work for, it’s Tucker, who also happens to hit lefties almost as well as he hits righties and has enough power to play in any ballpark.”
Tucker’s been absolutely dominant this season. He’s currently leading the National League in hits, runs, RBIs, home runs, OPS, WAR and total bases. That’s not just good – it’s MVP-caliber production.
The Cubs acquired Tucker from Houston precisely because the Astros weren’t confident they could afford his next contract. That hesitation makes sense when you look at the numbers. Spotrac projects Tucker will command a 12-year, $533 million deal in free agency – even more than Guerrero just received.
What makes Tucker so valuable? He’s a three-time All-Star who was on pace for career highs across the board last season before injuries limited him to 78 games. Even in that shortened campaign, he still hit 23 homers. His scorching start with Chicago only reinforces that he’ll be the premier position player available this winter.
The Cost of Doing Business
“It won’t come cheap; with Guerrero Jr. off the market, every big-market team is going to be lining up to poach Tucker from the Chicago Cubs,” Landers noted. “This is the cost of doing business at the top of the sport, though, and if Breslow wants to keep up with the Joneses, he might have to take a plunge he’s not entirely comfortable with.”
For Boston, it’s a matter of deciding whether they’re willing to commit half a billion dollars to one player. But with Guerrero staying in the division for the next 14 years, the Sox might need their own superstar to compete.
