The Chicago Cubs made a bold move last offseason when they acquired star outfielder Kyle Tucker, hoping he would help push them deeper into October. That gamble didn’t pay off, and now Tucker has entered free agency with his value soaring.
Chicago has never offered a free agent more than $200 million, a fact that doesn’t work in their favor as they attempt to keep Tucker. According to a new projection from Zach Mentz of Cleveland.com, the four-time All-Star is expected to land an astonishing 11-year, $440 million contract this winter—far beyond what the Cubs have historically committed to.
“Tucker is the crown jewel of this year’s free agent class, and most predictions estimate he’ll break the $400 million mark,” Mentz wrote. His offensive numbers dipped at Wrigley Field, where windy conditions can challenge hitters, but he remains one of baseball’s most complete left-handed bats and a Gold Glove-caliber defender. That combination positions him to secure the largest contract of any hitter available.
If Tucker does move on from Chicago because of his massive price tag, only a few clubs appear capable of signing him. The Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, and Los Angeles Dodgers are viewed as the frontrunners. The Yankees may pursue Tucker if Cody Bellinger leaves, the Blue Jays are looking to add elite talent after falling short in the World Series, and the Dodgers could look to replace Michael Conforto with a long-term superstar.
Wherever he lands, Tucker is expected to shape the future of one franchise—and close the door on his short but memorable chapter in Chicago.
