
Kyle Tucker is set to hit unrestricted free agency after one season as a member of the Chicago Cubs. As free agency begins, the Cubs extended the qualifying offer to Tucker on Thursday, a one-year offer worth $22 million. Tucker will undoubtedly decline the offer, but if Chicago is outbid for his services and he signs elsewhere, they will receive a draft pick in compensation.
As Tucker’s future remains uncertain, his lone season with the Cubs was still a memorable one. He was a huge reason why Chicago returned to the postseason for the first time since 2020. The 28-year-old right fielder posted a .266 batting average, .377 on-base percentage, .841 OPS, 22 home runs and 25 stolen bases across 136 games. Tucker earned the fourth consecutive All-Star selection of his career for his efforts during the first half.
On Thursday, the Cubs took to social media to share that Tucker’s season had been honored by Louisville Slugger.
After previously being named a finalist for a Silver Slugger Award alongside five other National League outfielders, he emerged victorious, taking home the award alongside Juan Soto of the New York Mets and Corbin Carroll of the Arizona Diamondbacks. “Congratulations to Kyle Tucker,” the team wrote on X. This marks the second time he has won a Silver Slugger in his career.
Kyle Tucker wins his second career Silver Slugger Award.
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) November 6, 2025
Congrats, Tuck! pic.twitter.com/wb1yuPugaS
The Cubs acquired Tucker last offseason in a blockbuster trade that sent a haul of prospects and All-Star infielder Isaac Paredes to the Houston Astros. It was a bold move aimed at jumpstarting a playoff push, and Tucker delivered. However, the team was unable to reach an extension with him during the regular season, and now they risk losing him for nothing more than draft pick compensation.
If Tucker signs elsewhere, it would leave a major hole in the Cubs’ outfield. He has been one of the most consistent hitters in baseball over his eight-year career, combining power, speed and elite plate discipline. Tucker’s ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball makes him a rare commodity, and his age and track record suggest he is in line for a massive payday. Projections have speculated that Tucker could command a deal worth north of $400 million.
Chicago remains hopeful, but competition will be fierce. Tucker is a proven star in his prime, and multiple contenders are expected to pursue him aggressively. For the Cubs, retaining Tucker is not just about keeping a Silver Slugger. It is about preserving the core of a team that finally returned to October.
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