Kyle Tucker stays calm as his record Los Angeles Dodgers contract continues to sparks debate across MLB

When Kyle Tucker walked into the Los Angeles Dodgers clubhouse early Monday morning, there was no grand entrance. There were no dramatic speeches or big moments. But outside that room, his name continues to dominate conversations across Major League Baseball. Tucker is now at the center of attention after signing a four year, $240 million contract that has sparked strong reactions across the league.

The attention began the moment his deal became official. His $60 million annual salary makes him the highest paid player in baseball this season. Because the Dodgers were already above the highest luxury tax level, the total financial impact climbs even higher. While some team owners have pointed to his contract as an example in the salary cap debate, Tucker does not see himself as the face of a business battle.

“It doesn’t bother me, it really doesn’t,’’ Tucker tells USA TODAY Sports. “I’m sure it would have probably happened in some aspect regardless of where I would have went. But I think with this team, winning the last two years, probably made it bigger.’’

Because of luxury tax penalties, the Dodgers will spend close to $120 million on Tucker this season alone. That number is equal to or greater than the entire payroll of several MLB teams.

Still, Tucker makes it clear that front office decisions are not his responsibility.

“I just happen to be on the team this front office assembled,’’ Tucker says. “I mean, obviously, every team would want to get the best players on their own team, but it doesn’t always work out like that. But this team does a pretty good job trying to put the best product out on the field for the fans. They’ve done that the last couple of years, putting themselves in a position to win a World Series.’’

“They make it pretty easy to come into this clubhouse and just be yourself and enjoy baseball,’’ Tucker said. “This organization is first class. We do have some really great players and great people on this team, so I’ve felt comfortable ever since I got here. I’m just going to do my thing regardless of where I’m at. ’’

Manager Dave Roberts values that steady approach. “I love guys who just come to work and value playing and love playing and competing,” Roberts says.

“He just wants to win. He’s not a self-promoter. He’s not going to give you guys a lot of great sound bites. He wants to play to win. I love guys like that. ’’

Away from baseball, Tucker is preparing for fatherhood. His wife Samantha is expecting their first child soon, which is why he declined an invitation to play in the World Baseball Classic.

For now, the debate around his contract may continue across MLB. But inside the Dodgers clubhouse, Kyle Tucker’s focus remains clear. He wants to win.