Kyle Tucker: Uncertain future with the Cubs after the loss?

Kyle Tucker: Uncertain Future for the Cubs Star

Following the conclusion of the season for the Chicago Cubs, questions about Kyle Tucker’s future begin to arise. The talented outfielder, one of the most coveted players in the free agent market, expressed his uncertainty after the loss in Game 5 of the National League Division Series against the Milwaukee Brewers.

“We’ll see what happens. I don’t know what the future holds. If not, it was an honor to play with all these guys and I wish everyone the best of luck, whether playing next year or not with them. It’s a really fun group to be a part of,” Tucker stated.

Kyle Tucker

Tucker, who could aim for a contract close to $400 million in free agency, agreed to a $16.5 million contract to avoid arbitration this season. The arrival of Tucker, acquired via a trade with the Houston Astros before this season, boosted the Cubs’ hopes for a deep postseason run. During the first part of the season, when Tucker stayed healthy and in good form, he was a solid MVP candidate and a catalyst in a dynamic and varied offense. However, Tucker, who will turn 29 in January, suffered a fractured right hand in June and a calf strain in September. The Brewers won the National League Central Division by five games over the Cubs, who earned the first wild card spot with a 92-70 record. After his return from the hand injury, Tucker struggled at the plate, batting .218 in July and .244 in August. Despite this, he finished the season with a batting average of .266/.377/.464, with 22 home runs, 73 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases in 136 games, being selected for the All-Star Game with the Cubs. He returned in time for the playoffs and batted 7 for 27 with a home run and an RBI.

“It meant a lot,” first baseman Michael Busch told reporters. “The consistency at the plate, getting on base and driving in runs. He’s as complete a hitter as you can be. I think putting him in any lineup, he’ll be at the top. I think he’s one of the best hitters in the game. He can change that lineup just by putting him there.”

Michael Busch

But the Cubs and Tucker, represented by Excel Sports Management, never reached an agreement for a long-term contract during the season. “I really don’t know right now,” Tucker said when asked if the Cubs have any advantage in signing him as a free agent. “I was more concerned about tonight’s game and everything. I’ll get through this today and worry about that a little later.” “I think this team has a lot of talent. A great group of guys. And I can definitely see this team having a lot of success in the future”.