Ex-MLB Exec: Cubs Star Outfielder Set for Record-Breaking $600M Contract

The Chicago Cubs have begun the season remarkably well, largely due to their choices during the off-season.

Last winter, the Cubs were among the most proactive teams aiming to enhance their performance following back-to-back seasons with 83 wins each. Up until now, the outcomes have been as follows:
has been fantastic for Chicago.

Recently, certain injuries have arisen.
hampered the starting rotation
Most importantly, the Cubs have had the ability to rely on their own strengths.
high-powered offense
in order to complete the task.

At every level from the top down, this roster boasts impressive skills. Yet, the inclusion of a specific athlete transformed the team’s prospects. Nonetheless, concern arises as their standout performer might depart as a free agent once the season concludes.

What Is the Value of Kyle Tucker’s New Contract?

Jim Bowden from The Athletic
Recently discussed the Cubs outfielder as potentially being the top free agent in the coming group, indicating he’s poised for a significant financial windfall.

After Juan Soto secured his groundbreaking $765 million pact during free agency and Vladimir Guerrero Jr.’s $500 million extension was signed, expectations are high that Tucker will receive a nine-figure agreement beginning with a figure of six. Major market clubs such as the Cubs, Phillies, Yankees, and Dodgers are anticipated to compete for his services.

Acquiring Tucker was undoubtedly the correct choice for Chicago during the previous winter, however, it came at a significant cost both initially and in terms of retaining him moving forward.

Following Juan Soto’s impact on the market during the previous off-season, Tucker emerged as a major beneficiary. This could be a key reason why the Houston Astros decided to trade one of their star players who still had a year remaining on his contract.

Given that the Cubs traded away three potential Major Leaguers for him, letting him go to free agency would be particularly hard if they fail to secure a World Series title this season.

As of 2025, he has hit for an impressive slash line of .278 /.387/.552, accumulating 12 home runs, 35 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases. With free agency approaching, it appears very probable that he will achieve a 30/30 season, which would further increase his market value.

Although he is slightly senior compared to Soto and Guerrero, he remains only 28 years old, placing him on the younger end when it comes to reaching free agency.

Following the recently signed contracts for several top players in the league, a $600 million agreement with Tucker doesn’t seem far-fetched. Given that the Chicago squad has not invested heavily in free agency lately, maybe they’ve been conserving resources specifically for a talent like him.

Many potential bidders would emerge should he enter the free agent market, however, the Cubs would undoubtedly be among them.

Recommended Articles

The article was initially posted on
www.si.com/mlb/cubs
as
Ex-MLB Exec Thinks Cubs Star outfielder Will Secure $600 Million Contract
.