The Cubs’ Bold Move: Acquiring Kyle Tucker
In December 2023, the Chicago Cubs made a significant splash in the MLB offseason by acquiring All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. The trade, which sent top prospect Cam Smith, All-Star infielder Isaac Paredes, and right-hander Hayden Wesneski to Houston, marked a major move for a franchise that had been criticized for its lack of urgency in recent years. Tucker, a three-time All-Star, World Series champion, and MVP candidate, instantly became the face of the Cubs’ lineup, addressing a glaring need for offensive firepower. The deal was a clear win for the Cubs, who had been stuck in neutral since their last playoff appearance beyond the wild-card round in 2017. For a fan base growing increasingly frustrated, the addition of Tucker was a long-overdue upgrade to a lineup that had been barely above league average in 2024.
However, the excitement surrounding Tucker comes with a caveat: he is set to become a free agent at the end of the 2025 season. With his prime years still ahead of him, Tucker is expected to command a lucrative contract exceeding $300 million, a price tag the Cubs may not be willing or able to pay. Given the precedent set by other high-profile free agents like Juan Soto, it’s unlikely Tucker will sign an extension before testing the open market. This makes the 2025 season a make-or-break campaign for the Cubs, who now have a one-year window to maximize Tucker’s impact and prove to him—and their fans—that they are committed to building a winner.
A Missed Opportunity to Build a Contender
Despite the buzz around Tucker’s arrival, the Cubs’ offseason was largely underwhelming. Fans expected the team to build a formidable roster around their new star, especially after shedding Cody Bellinger’s contract and freeing up $34 million in payroll. However, the Cubs failed to land top free-agent targets like third baseman Alex Bregman, settling instead for low-to-mid-level signings. The acquisition of left-hander Matthew Boyd on a two-year, $29 million deal was seen as a replacement for departing pitchers Drew Smyly and Kyle Hendricks, while the trade for veteran reliever Ryan Pressly addressed bullpen needs. These moves, while functional, did little to inspire confidence that the Cubs were serious about making a deep playoff run.
The Cubs’ reluctance to spend this winter stands in stark contrast to their reputation as one of baseball’s most valuable franchises. Valued at over $5 billion, according to Sportico, the Cubs have the resources to compete with any team in the league. Yet, they were outspent by smaller-market teams like the Athletics, Angels, Tigers, and even the Rays. This conservative approach has raised questions about the organization’s commitment to winning. While the Cubs are projected to win around 84 games—enough to compete for the National League Central title—their lack of aggression in free agency leaves them woefully unprepared to contend with the likes of the Dodgers, Braves, and other powerhouses in the National League.
A Promising but Incomplete Roster
Despite the offseason’s shortcomings, the Cubs enter the 2025 season with a roster that is undeniably more talented than in recent years. Kyle Tucker’s presence in right field bolsters an offense that sorely needed a star-level performer. The Cubs also boast an exciting young core, headlined by third baseman Matt Shaw, who is making his major-league debut at the Tokyo Dome and is a leading candidate for NL Rookie of the Year. Outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong is another promising youngster, taking over full-time duties in center field as he looks to develop consistency at the plate. The infield tandem of shortstop Dansby Swanson and second baseman Nico Hoerner is among the best in the league, and the pitching staff features emerging stars like left-handers Shota Imanaga and Justin Steele, the latter of whom is entering his prime.
However, the Cubs’ roster is far from complete. Their pitching depth remains a concern, particularly in the bullpen, and the lack of a true ace in the rotation could prove costly in playoff games. The offense, while improved with Tucker, still lacks the depth to match the firepower of teams like the Dodgers or Braves. As it stands, the Cubs are a solid but unspectacular team, good enough to win the weak NL Central but unlikely to make a deep postseason run without additional reinforcements.
The Pressure is On
As the Cubs prepare to face the Dodgers in the MLB Tokyo Series, the pressure is mounting on both the front office and the players. The acquisition of Kyle Tucker was a step in the right direction, but the failure to build a stronger supporting cast around him has left the team with an uphill battle. While the Cubs are expected to contend for a division title, their inability to land impact free agents like Bregman or invest in a proven closer has fans questioning whether the organization is fully committed to winning. The franchise’s decision to operate like a small-market team despite its vast resources has only fueled frustration among the fan base.
The 2025 season will be a defining moment for the Cubs. With Tucker in the lineup and a talented young core on the rise, the team has the potential to make noise in October. But without additional reinforcements, they risk falling short of their aspirations once again. For a franchise with the Cubs’ history and resources, anything less than a deep playoff run will only intensify calls for change. The clock is ticking, and the Cubs have one year to prove that the acquisition of Kyle Tucker was more than just a rental—for both him and their fans.
The Bottom Line: A Team on the Brink
The Cubs’ trade for Kyle Tucker was a bold move that injected life into a franchise that had grown stagnant. Tucker’s arrival has made the Cubs the favorites to win the NL Central, and his presence alongside a promising young core gives fans reason to hope. However, the failure to invest in a stronger supporting cast has left the team feeling incomplete, raising questions about whether they’re truly ready to contend. The 2025 season will be a test of whether the Cubs can maximize Tucker’s impact and build momentum for the future. If they fall short, it will only underscore the need for a more aggressive approach in the offseason. For now, the Cubs are a team on the brink, with the potential to surprise but the risk of underachieving. Only time will tell if they can capitalize on this opportunity.
