Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker acknowledged the New York Mets' pursuit during free agency, stating he felt comfortable choosing Los Angeles and has been happy with his decision.
"They're great people over there. I had [Troy Snitker], their hitting coach, when I was in Houston. A few familiar faces over there," Tucker said Friday night at Citi Field, following the Dodgers' 4-2 victory over the Mets. "I think they have some really good players. Hasn't necessarily worked out how they had hoped or wanted to have the season go, but it kind of happens sometimes."
Tucker ultimately signed a four-year contract with the Dodgers worth $240 million, exceeding the Mets' offer by $20 million. Despite the endorsement, Tucker's performance with the Dodgers this season has been inconsistent, with a .240 batting average, .333 on-base percentage, and .371 slugging percentage, resulting in a .704 OPS. He has hit eight home runs, a notable decrease from his average of 26.8 over the previous five seasons. This slump led to him being moved down to seventh in the batting order for the series opener.
In separate team news, Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns addressed speculation surrounding catchers Francisco Alvarez and Luis Torrens. Stearns affirmed the importance of the catching position and expressed satisfaction with the current tandem.
"Without commenting on any specific player or approach to any specific player, catching is really important," Stearns said. "We're very fortunate to have two really good ones."
Reports have indicated that the Mets might consider trading Alvarez, 24, if the right offer materializes. Both Alvarez and Torrens are under team control beyond the current season.
Carlos Beltrán, ahead of his Hall of Fame induction, confirmed that Mets officials had approached him about managing the team after the dismissal of Carlos Mendoza. Beltrán declined the opportunity. Stearns commented on Beltrán's role, stating, "I love having Carlos as a special assistant, he does a great job. I'm really excited for him and his family about what they're about to experience this weekend. It's very well-deserved." Beltrán has served as a special assistant to the Mets for the past four seasons.
Former Mets closer Edwin Díaz was absent from his former team's return to Queens as he recovers from arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow to address loose bodies, an April procedure. Additionally, Mets rookie outfielder Carson Benge recorded two assists during the game, a feat not achieved by a Mets rookie outfielder since Juan Lagares in 2013. Actress Emma Stone was also present at Citi Field to film a scene for her upcoming movie, "The Catch," with Juan Soto reportedly making a cameo appearance.