The Chicago Cubs went into this offseason believing that their superstar, Kyle Tucker, was as good as gone this offseason as he looked for his mega deal. However, there may be a chance Tucker stays in right field at Wrigley in 2026.
According to Fansided’s Mark Powell, Boras and Bregman need to realize that Bregman’s market just isn’t there, and most likely, they won’t get the deal they’re looking for.
“The longer Tucker stays on the market, the worse his prospects of a long-term contract get. Tucker knows this. Executives know this. Even Tucker's agent, Casey Close, surely knows this. All of that is why we shouldn't expect Tucker to sign anytime soon, unless he's chosen to alter his expectations. What do I mean by that? Well, Tucker is such a productive player that he has some options. He could take a high-AAV, short-term contract with the hopes of reaching free agency again next winter. Heck, that short-term deal could even include a player option or two just in case he doesn't live up to expectations in a walk year…Were he to re-sign with the Cubs for, say, a $50 million AAV over two years, or just over $40 million for three years, why should either side say no? ” Powell wrote.
This past season, Tucker slashed.266/.377/.464/.841 with 25 doubles, 22 home runs, and 73 RBI in 136 games played. He also earned his fourth All-Star nod and his second Silver Slugger.
MORE: Red Sox get huge update regarding about potential re-signing of superstar Alex Bregman
Powell is right about a short-term deal. The Cubs have made no major moves this offseason; if they can retain Tucker, even on a one- or two-year contract, that would shock the MLB. Plus, it would buy them a ton of credit with fans, and prepare them to be big spenders in 2026.
Hopefully, the market continues playing out like this, so Chicago can swoop in and retain their franchise star.
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