The Chicago Cubs face a pivotal offseason, and the question on everyone's mind is: Will Kyle Tucker be back? While the team would love to keep the star outfielder, the reality is more complex than a simple yes or no. The Cubs are prepared to let Tucker walk, even though he had a great season.
The Cubs' front office is keeping a close eye on Tucker's situation, but it seems likely he'll be signing with a new team. Tucker is in line for a massive contract, and the Cubs have other priorities. Their main focus is on bolstering their pitching rotation and bullpen.
The Cubs made a bold move last winter, trading for Tucker, knowing he could significantly improve their lineup and boost their chances. It was understood from the beginning that this might be a short-term partnership, but it paid off with a playoff berth.
Cubs General Manager Carter Hawkins stated, "We'd love to find ways to get you back in a Cubs uniform." However, they are also aware of the financial implications. The Cubs have taken the necessary step of offering Tucker a one-year qualifying offer of $22.025 million, which would provide them with draft-pick compensation if he declines and signs elsewhere. Tucker has until Tuesday to make his decision.
The team plans to explore all options for improving their pitching staff, including free agency, trades, and the international market. They also need to fill several spots in the bullpen. Even without Tucker, the Cubs are likely to be more strategic when it comes to adding offensive players.
Cubs President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer noted, "We will look to move things around and add players, but the level of urgency is not as high as it is on the pitching side."
The Cubs have plenty of internal options.
Veteran Ian Happ is in left field, Pete Crow-Armstrong is in center, and Seiya Suzuki can easily move back to right field, where Tucker played when healthy. Additionally, the Cubs have young outfielders Owen Caissie (No. 1 prospect per MLB Pipeline) and Kevin Alcántara (No. 5), plus young catcher Moisés Ballesteros (No. 2), who can contribute as a designated hitter.
The Cubs have solid catching options with Carson Kelly and Miguel Amaya. The infield is set with Michael Busch at first base, Nico Hoerner at second, Dansby Swanson at shortstop, and Matt Shaw at third. The team's flexibility is limited, except for potentially improving bench depth.
Hawkins explained, "Where are we most likely to improve? It's going to be on the pitching side. That's where the most opportunity is." He added that while they would consider acquiring a great position player, their focus is on pitching to get the best value.
But here's where it gets controversial... Last offseason, when the Cubs traded for Tucker, their lineup had more question marks. In 2024, they had no players with a bWAR of 4.0 or higher, and only four players (Swanson, Happ, Hoerner, and Suzuki) exceeded 3.0. Busch and Crow-Armstrong were still developing, Shaw wasn't on the team yet, and the catching situation was uncertain. However, in 2025, eight players topped 3.0 WAR, with six exceeding 4.0, including outstanding performances from Hoerner (6.2) and Crow-Armstrong (6.0).
The front office now sees less need to add a player like Tucker, who would require a significant investment.
Hawkins reflected on the Tucker trade, stating, "We felt like we needed a boost. It was aggressive, and we gave up a lot of talent, but it helped us have a really solid season. From that perspective, it was a success."
Tucker, an All-Star and Silver Slugger recipient, had an impressive season, hitting 22 home runs, 25 doubles, and stealing 25 bases. He also had 73 RBIs, scored 91 runs, and had nearly as many walks (87) as strikeouts (88), with an .841 OPS in 136 games. Despite missing time due to injuries, he still posted a 4.6 bWAR, marking his fifth consecutive season above 4.5.
Hoyer emphasized Tucker's impact, saying, "When we were at our best, he was at his best... He's a great player. We had a really good experience with him. And obviously we'll be talking to [his agent]."
Do you think the Cubs are making the right decision by prioritizing pitching over re-signing Tucker?
