1 thing the NY Mets’ offer to Kyle Tucker doesn’t change about next offseason

The New York Mets seemingly have the upper hand in the Kyle Tucker chase. Not only are they willing to go big on the AAV in a market that doesn't seem like it will yield the decade-long commitment he has sought, but they have some impressive connections to the superstar outfielder, including David Stearns, both hitting coaches (Jeff Albert and Troy Snitker), as well as scouting VP Kris Gross.

The money is the ultimate factor, and the offer shows that Stearns isn't the penny-pincher that he's been made out to be by a vocal section of the fans. The pre-existing relationships are just the icing on the cake.

However, as Stearns sheds his thrifty label in the pursuit of Tucker, an unanswered question remains. Will he also be willing to spend big for a certain one-of-a-kind starting pitcher when the time comes next offseason?

The Kyle Tucker pursuit doesn't answer the question as to whether or not David Stearns and the Mets will spend big for Tarik Skubal next offseason

The elephant in the room is, of course, Tarik Skubal, who is certain to test the market and try to set records next winter. Mets fans would love for the club to get a jumpstart and pull the trigger on a trade for the two-time AL Cy Young winner, though a trade isn't likely. Even if that were to come to fruition, it would make virtually no difference in the club's chances at landing him in free agency come the offseason.

The sticking point here is Stearns' pesky habit of avoiding long-term deals and contracts above a certain number when it comes to starters.

To a degree, the executive's redline stance is prudent. Starters often get hurt and can prove to be risky investments over the long run.

However, the staunchness he's displayed has also left the rotation lacking a true ace, and it's not like there haven't been opportunities to acquire a hurler who fits the bill as a true No. 1.

Even so, Skubal is a different beast. He's the ace of all aces, and his talent is why many teams will be willing to act out of character in hopes of landing him.

When that time comes, we'll still be flying blind. The Mets are one of the richest teams in the league, so the links will be obvious, but making the sort of offer required to get Skubal's attention will go against all of Stearns' principles.

While it might seem the pursuit of Tucker says he's willing to consider different things if the target is worth it, there's a huge difference between a four-year deal for a player of Tucker's caliber and a $400 million, 10-year contract that Skubal's projected to get. How things play out in 2026 could also serve as motivation, so we'll just have to wait and see how things play out.