- Joined
- May 8, 2002
- Posts
- 1,151,736
- Reaction score
- 59
You must be registered for see images attach
Los Angeles Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman issued a challenge to free agent Kyle Tucker before he signed with LA.
The Dodgers have created a culture out of winning, having dominated the NL West for more than a decade, and Friedman wanted to ensure Tucker was prepared to enter the competitive environment.
“It was just getting into our environment, and what our guys do to prepare,” Friedman said of his conversation with Tucker, per The California Post’s Jack Harris. “They do an incredible job of setting the standard. So the challenge is: Is that something you’re up for?”
If the question is about Tucker’s ability, he’ll definitely be able to survive in LA. He has made the All-Star Game in each of the last four seasons, and has managed 20 or more homers in each of the last five. He had 22 homers and 73 RBIs to go with an .841 OPS in 2025 despite playing through a hairline fracture in his hand. Tucker also has experience in the postseason and World Series, having won the Fall Classic with the Houston Astros in 2021.
The Dodgers seem to think the same way, as hitting coach Aaron Bates believes the sky is the limit for LA’s newest star.
“I don’t know, he’s been a pretty good player over the last five, six years,” Bates said. “Last year, he was basically the best player in baseball before he got hurt.”
“…I wouldn’t put limitations on what he’s capable of doing when he’s healthy, especially as he enters his prime years. But if he can just be himself, that’s plenty good enough.”
You must be registered for see images attach
Mar 14, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Kyle Tucker against the Chicago White Sox during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Where Does Kyle Tucker Fit with the Dodgers?
The Dodgers plugged a crucial hole in their lineup by signing Tucker, addressing their desperate need for an outfielder.
After Michael Conforto’s shortcomings in 2025, adding a consistent bat to bolster the lineup was a must. As for where he will play, Tucker will be taking his favored right field from Teoscar Hernandez, who will move back to left field this season.
Manager Dave Roberts also said Tucker would be batting high in the lineup, beginning the season in the No. 2 spot.
Do you think Kyle Tucker can live up to the Dodgers’ expectations?
Continue reading...
