The Blue Jays are trying to build on the 2025 season and make sure they achieve their dream of winning the World Series. And they are not hesitating to go after big names like Kyle Tucker, even if it means that the reunion with Bo Bichette is off the table. But there are a few things that have to fall into place.

In a recent video by BALLCAP Sports, host Jim Reily dug into the Blue Jays chasing Kyle Tucker and what it means for Bo Bichette. “Two things have to happen, I think Kyle Tucker to be a real possibility for the Toronto Blue Jays… the Dodgers have to be out… and Bo Bichette, I think, has to be gone… If they sign Kyle Tucker in two weeks and Bo Bichette is still out there, does that mean Bo Bichette is gone? It might.”

Bo Bichette is projected to command a massive contract in free agency after a strong 2025 season in which he hit .311 with 18 home runs and 94 RBIs over 139 games. Meanwhile, Kyle Tucker is expected to land a 10-year deal in the neighborhood of $400 million, according to multiple sources.

Signing Bichette would reinforce the Jays’ core and preserve a homegrown star. But his defensive issues, as noted, including 13 outs above average at shortstop in 2025, could make a positional shift more likely.

On the other hand, adding Tucker would give them a lefty power bat who hit 22 home runs and stole 25 bases in 2025 for the Cubs. Financially, the Jays are unlikely to afford both without stretching payroll; Tucker’s massive deal could limit flexibility elsewhere.

The organization has publicly stated Bichette is their top priority, though, praising his role in their recent run. Yet their interest in Tucker remains strong; MLB insiders list Toronto among his top suitors.

Still, the Dodgers are widely predicted to lead the race for Tucker, which complicates Toronto’s pursuit. But reportedly, the Dodgers may not want to commit long-term to his bat.

“The Dodgers are open to adding another bat, and doing so makes the most sense in the outfield, but they are not expected to go into the 10- or 12-year space for Tucker,” noted ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez.

Now, if pushed to choose, the Jays might lean toward Tucker: they reached the World Series last season even with Bichette injured, and Tucker could provide that final piece down the stretch. Their recent success without a healthy Bichette underscores how much value a long-term elite bat like Kyle Tucker could bring.

Toronto’s pursuit of Kyle Tucker and Bo Bichette now reflects a franchise testing its resolve. The financial divide between their markets leaves the Blue Jays juggling loyalty and cold arithmetic again. In the end, Toronto must decide whether Bichette’s familiarity outweighs Tucker’s firepower or if dreams cost extra.

There is another player the Blue Jays can snag if not Kyle Tucker

The Blue Jays spent the early winter convincing everyone they’re finally ready to act like a team that wants to matter, and not just one that enjoys hovering around the Wild Card bubble. Toronto’s pursuit of Kyle Tucker has become the loudest storyline in town, but here’s the fun twist. Even if Tucker slips away, the Jays still have a sneaky path to upgrade their outfield in a way nobody’s really talking about yet.

Cody Bellinger emerges as a strong alternative for the Blue Jays.

In 2025, Bellinger hit .272 with 160 hits, drove in 98 runs, and launched 29 home runs in 152 games. His performance offered a reliable combination of power and contact, and he played multiple outfield positions to provide defensive flexibility. Given his steady production and age-30 experience, he fits well into a contending Blue Jays core.

Top Stories

MLB Refuses to Come to Blue Jays Star’s Aid as Ross Atkins Refuses to Budge Amid Disagreement

Boston Threatens “Mutiny” Against Red Sox as Roman Anthony left to Dry After Alex Bregman Exit

3 Reasons Bo Bichette’s Offseason Market Seemingly Collapses After Blue Jays’ Sudden Shift

Mets Give Up Tatsuya Imai Pursuit as David Stearns Targets $200M Free Agent Ace: Report

Bo Bichette’s Toronto Return Fades Fast as Blue Jays–Red Sox Face Fierce Threat From AL East Rival: MLB Rumor

From a financial standpoint, Bellinger’s expected contract could be far more manageable than Tucker’s sky-high price.

Analysts project Bellinger might command a 3-6 year deal at roughly $25-30 million per year. Meanwhile, Kyle Tucker is expected to sign a blockbuster deal, with some projections reaching $400 million or more.

That cost differential could free up payroll flexibility for Toronto, potentially allowing it to re-sign Bo Bichette, whose own next contract could land in the $189-250 million range.

Toronto knows the Kyle Tucker chase defines their winter, yet the picture stays unfinished. Cody Bellinger keeps nudging into the frame because his value fits Toronto’s blueprint. If the Blue Jays want clarity sooner, they might need to choose purpose over suspense.