The Chicago Cubs made a significant splash by trading for Kyle Tucker last offseason. Now, with his contract nearing its end, re-signing him is shaping up to be a major challenge. Although the power hitter has hit a rough patch lately, he’s still the top free agent available this winter, and several big-market teams are expected to pursue him.
The Philadelphia Phillies are a top contender to land Kyle Tucker. With Tucker expected to command a massive $490 million contract, and some projections pushing that number beyond $500 million, the Phillies are positioning themselves to make a serious run at the superstar outfielder.
“Tucker started his first season with the Cubs on a tear, hitting 17 home runs with 52 RBIs, 20 stolen bases and a .931 OPS through June,” Feinsand wrote. “A hand injury might have contributed to Tucker’s step back offensively in July and August, but he remains the best and most well-rounded player on the free-agent market this winter, having been worth at least 4.0 fWAR in every year since 2021. The four-time All-Star could command a deal north of $400 million.”
The Phillies make a lot of sense for Tucker because they’re always in “win now” mode, and they have the money to make it happen. But they might look to re-sign Kyle Schwarber instead.
Schwarber is the only wrinkle in this idea that could cause the Phillies to fall out of the race. Besides that, Philadelphia has a massive hole in the outfield, and its front office can afford to give out a mega contract again.
The Cubs are fighting quite an uphill battle to keep Tucker in the Windy City.
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