This article takes a close look at why the Chicago Cubs, fresh off a return to the NLDS, seem ready to let star outfielder Kyle Tucker walk in free agency. What does that decision mean for their roster, pitching plans, and long-term payroll? Let’s dig into the front office’s mindset, possible replacements for Tucker’s production, and the money realities shaping Chicago’s next contention window.
Cubs Prioritize Pitching Over Re-Signing Kyle Tucker
The big story out of Wrigley this winter: the Cubs are unlikely to make a serious push to re-sign Kyle Tucker. That’s a surprising move, considering Tucker’s huge role in getting the club back to the postseason and into the NLDS.
Team president Jed Hoyer has praised Tucker’s value and professionalism. Still, he’s made it clear the Cubs’ main offseason focus is pitching, not keeping a marquee bat.
Frontline arms cost a fortune and aren’t easy to find. Chicago seems willing to sacrifice some offense if it means shoring up their run prevention.
Why the Cubs Are Letting a Star Bat Walk
Tucker’s track record is what every contender wants. Over the last five seasons, he’s put up:
That kind of production—on-base skills, power, and steady value—isn’t easy to replace. Letting him go isn’t about talent; it’s about where the Cubs want to put their resources and how much risk they’re willing to take on.
Pitching Woes Exposed in October
The Cubs’ October exit really came down to pitching depth falling apart at the worst time. Injuries to Cade Horton and Justin Steele showed just how thin the rotation was beyond the top arms.
The front office seems determined not to go into another October with so many question marks behind their best starters.
New Arms and Possible Targets
The Cubs have already brought in reliever Phil Maton, a steady bullpen guy who can handle tough innings. But the bigger move will probably come at the top of the rotation, where they’re looking at ace-caliber or near-ace-caliber arms.
Reported targets include:
The Cubs are also checking out the trade market. Names like Edward Cabrera and Sandy Alcantara have popped up. Both have risks—Cabrera’s command and durability, Alcantara’s health and price—but either could help anchor a playoff rotation.
Can the Cubs Replace Tucker’s Bat Internally?
Letting Tucker walk leaves a huge offensive hole. The Cubs have some intriguing internal options, but they’re unproven and volatile. There’s upside, sure, but not much in the way of established, full-season big-league production.
Young, High-Upside Talent… with Big Questions
Chicago’s system is loaded with young position players who could, in theory, help fill the void:
These guys have upside, but none has shown they can handle a full 162-game grind against major league pitching. Counting on them to replace Tucker’s 4+ WAR is, honestly, a big ask.
The established big leaguers around them didn’t exactly erase doubts in 2025:
Pete Crow-Armstrong: Breakout Star or Overburdened Anchor?
The one true offensive breakout came from Pete Crow-Armstrong, who put up a wild 30-30 season and finished top-10 in NL MVP voting. His blend of speed, pop, and defense gives the Cubs a dynamic, face-of-the-franchise type player.
Even so, PCA’s breakout wasn’t without its warning signs. His second-half OPS cratered, raising real questions about whether he’s ready to carry the lineup without someone like Tucker in the middle.
Risk of Overreliance on a Young Star
It’s risky to ask a developing player to carry an offense, especially when opposing teams will spend the offseason figuring out how to attack his weaknesses. Without Tucker, Crow-Armstrong could see tougher pitching and more pressure in big spots. The Cubs really need at least one more proven bat to keep his growth from stalling out.
Financial Constraints and the Luxury Tax Squeeze
Money is a big part of the Cubs’ stance on Tucker. Their projected competitive balance tax (CBT) figure for 2026 is around $197 million, with the luxury tax threshold at $244 million.
That gap might look big, but it shrinks fast after you add in arbitration raises, existing long-term deals, and the cost of those pitching upgrades. The front office has to decide if a big-ticket bat is something they just can’t squeeze in right now.
Big-Name Bats Likely Out of Reach
Names like Bo Bichette and Alex Bregman always seem to pop up when people start talking about impact hitters on the market.
But with the Cubs’ CBT situation and their clear focus on pitching, it just doesn’t feel likely they’ll chase another expensive star bat to replace Tucker.
This is the crux of the off-season debate in Chicago:
Fans and analysts can’t seem to agree. Some folks argue it’s time for a pivot toward pitching and a bit of fiscal restraint. Others think that’s a mistake, especially after the team finally built some momentum by getting back to the NLDS.
Here is the source article for this story: Poll: Will The Cubs Sign A Big Bat This Winter?
Experience Baseball History in Person
Want to walk the same grounds where baseball legends made history? Find accommodations near iconic ballparks across America and create your own baseball pilgrimage.
Check availability at hotels near: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium
Plan your ballpark visit: Get MLB Ballpark Tickets and find accommodations nearby.
- Biographies
- Stadium Guides
- Current Baseball Players
- Current Players by Team
- Players that Retired in the 2020s
- Players that Retired in the 2010s
- Players that Retired in the 2000s
- Players that Retired in the 1990s
- Players that Retired in the 1980s
- Players that Retired in the 1970s
- Players that Retired in the 1960s
- Players that Retired in the 1950s
- Players that Retired in the 1940s
- Players that Retired in the 1930s