Chicago Cubs outfielder Kyle Tucker is expected to reach free agency this winter. And now that first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr. won’t be hitting the open market, the left-handed slugger could be the focus for many big-market teams in need of more offense in 2026 and beyond.
And with him likely being in high demand, Tucker’s potential payday could continue climbing beyond what was previously assumed to be out of reach. Jim Bowden of The Athletic recently reported that Tucker is expected to land a nine-figure deal that “starts with a 6.” He also mentioned four specific big-market teams that he anticipates being in the running for his services: the New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Cubs.
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Kyle Tucker’s Market Value Has Skyrocketed in Recent Months
The 28-year-old spent the first seven seasons of his MLB career with the Houston Astros before getting traded to the Cubs this past winter. Around the time that happened, Spotrac had projected his market value for a long-term deal at seven years and $195 million.
That’s no chump change, but it certainly seems that way with how things have progressed for the slugger over the past few months. And I’m not even talking about Bowden’s comment about Tucker potentially commanding a $600 million contract.
In just a short period, Spotrac has updated its market value calculation for Tucker from that $195 million figure to 13 years and $521 million.
That seems like a ridiculous amount considering Tucker’s body of work. He’s one of the more underrated position players in today’s game, especially since he spent a few years in the same lineup as Yordan Alvarez. But still, Tucker is a 2022 World Series champ, a three-time All-Star, and has taken home both a Silver Slugger Award and a Gold Glove Award.
But then again, it felt like a shock when Shohei Ohtani agreed to his $700 million deal and Juan Soto signed for $765 million. So, who knows what will happen once Tucker reaches the open market?
His Cubs Tenure Is Off to a Solid Start
After playing in at least 140 games between 2021 and 2023, Tucker was limited to just 78 games in 2024 with Houston. He still racked up big numbers, posting a .993 OPS with 23 homers and 49 RBI in 339 plate appearances.
That performance has held steady despite switching jerseys and calling Wrigley Field home. Tucker has posted a .939 OPS with 12 homers and 35 RBI through his first 230 plate appearances with the Cubs. He’s also been one of the big reasons why Chicago is holding onto first place in the National League Central as we head toward Memorial Day.
While his long-term future is still murky, it’s shaping up to be an interesting trip to free agency for the left-handed slugger.
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