The Chicago Cubs made a big move last offseason and traded for Kyle Tucker. He has been great for the team so far, but is slated to become a free agent after this season. The Cubs would like to extend Tucker, but the New York Post’s Jon Heyman finds that highly unlikely.
“Tucker is a clear free agent and (Pete) Alonso has an opt-out (as does (Alex) Bregman), but there’s actually slightly less chance Tucker will hit the market since Alonso’s out and coming freedom is a fait accompli while the Cubs will likely try to extend Tucker early,” wrote Heyman. “The chances a superstar like Tucker signs an extension months from freedom aren’t great, but he did tell The Post he’s enjoying the Cubs.”
Tucker singing an extension would prevent the impending free agency frenzy to land him next winter. He could end up demanding close to $600 million in total value after another great season. He is already a three-time All-Star, a Gold Glover and a Silver Slugger.
Tucker has been named to three consecutive All-Star games and could be on his way to a fourth. He has an .898 OPS this year and 10 home runs. Last season, he was on pace to set new career highs across the board, but played in just 78 games. He hit 23 home runs in that span, however.
Tucker has shown he can be a consistent 30-home run threat in a lineup. He has hit 122 home runs since the start of 2022, which is when he was named an All-Star for the first time. In 2023, he led baseball in RBIs. His first season in Chicago has likely increased the likelihood that he hits free agency. He will likely be the best player available next winter.
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The Cubs will do everything they can to keep him around after trading away valuable assets to get him. However, a team like the New York Yankees may be able to outbid them. Right now, it’s looking like the Cubs will have to throw their hat in the ring in free agency rather than extending Tucker before he hits the market.
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