Volkswacht Bodensee - Mets sign Bichette after Tucker opts for Dodgers: reports

The pair of deals by MLB's biggest-spending franchises for arguably the off-season's two most coveted free agents had yet to be confirmed by the clubs, but have sent shockwaves through a sport already divided over huge payroll disparities.

Bichette, who powered the Toronto Blue Jays to a World Series appearance last year, has signed a three-year deal worth $126 million, league sources told The Athletic.

Though typically a short stop, he is reportedly expected to play third base for the Mets if the move is finalized, pending a physical.

On Thursday night, ESPN reported that Tucker -- another Mets target -- had instead opted for the Dodgers, who have won the two past World Series.

Tucker's deal is for four years at $240 million, the US sports outlet reported.

The right-fielder spent last season at the Chicago Cubs, after a hugely successful stint at the Houston Astros that included their 2022 World Series crown.

Tucker now joins a star-packed Dodgers lineup also including the likes of Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman. The Los Angeles franchise will be eyeing an historic World Series three-peat.

But their recent free-spending dominance has drawn criticism from rival teams, particularly in smaller markets, who say they cannot compete financially.

MLB is the only major North American league not to have a salary cap, instead implementing a luxury tax for teams that exceed a payroll threshold.

R.Buehler--VB