The Chicago Cubs have surged to first place in the surprisingly-competitive National League Central division to open the season.
The team is enjoying a major leap by Pete Crow-Armstrong and the pitching staff has been able to endure the injury losses of Justin Steele and Shota Imanaga, at least so far.
But the team can look to one bold offseason move as the biggest catalyst for their success.
After missing the playoffs for the fourth straight year in 2024, the front office opted to trade away franchise outfielder Cody Bellinger and bring in Kyle Tucker as a replacement. Tucker has rewarded that decision by slashing .276/.387/.545 with 10 homers, 32 RBI and 10 steals so far.
But it was a bold move, as Tucker is set to become the most coveted free agent of the class at the end of this season. As a result, the Cubs could lose him to any number of suitors, and USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported that the Los Angeles Dodgers have decided that they will enter the mix if Tucker hits the market.
“The Los Angeles Dodgers plan to jump in the free-agent fray for Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker this winter,” Nightengale wrote. “They may not be the high bidder, but they’ll surely keep everyone honest just as they did when they were in the Juan Soto sweepstakes.”
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The Dodgers seem to be in contention for virtually every high-talent baseball player who becomes available. And the Dodgers could use an upgrade in the outfield as Michael Conforto has disappointed in his debut with the team so far this season.
Tucker’s next round of contract offers might reach the $500 million range, but the Dodgers would be able to offer the best chance of playing for a World Series championship.
Still, the Cubs can end the competition for Tucker before it even starts if they can convince him to sign an extension before the season ends.
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