
The Chicago Cubs made a major splash this past week, signing third basemanAlex Bregman to a five‑year, $175 million contract to take over at the hot corner.
Yet one of the biggest questions surrounding the Cubs this winter has not been about Bregman, but rather outfielder Kyle Tucker, who spent last season in Chicago.
The 28‑year‑old proved to be a strong fit, delivering consistent production and a well‑rounded impact. Tucker posted a .266 batting average, .377 on‑base percentage, .841 OPS, 22 home runs and 25 stolen bases across 136 games.
Chicago sent a strong prospect package to the Houston Astros to acquire him last offseason, but president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer ultimately directed the bulk of the team’s payroll toward landing Bregman instead.
On Thursday, a new report from MLB Network’s Jon Heyman revealed that Tucker’s free agency decision has narrowed to three finalists: the New York Mets, the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers.
“As far as the teams, Tucker has three great choices. He could go to the Mets. The New York Post has reported four years, $200 million. The Dodgers, certainly, as the two‑time defending World Series champions, could go there. And the Jays who will be offering the longest deal,” Heyman reported.
The update effectively signals the end of Tucker’s tenure in Chicago, closing the door on a potential return to the Cubs.
Subsequently on Thursday, Chicago made a separate roster move, claiming infielder Benjamin Cowles off waivers from the crosstown White Sox and officially adding him to the 40‑man roster.
The transaction is notable because it filled the Cubs’ roster to capacity, leaving no available spot to accommodate Tucker even if the club had pursued a reunion.
Today's roster move presented by @NuveenInv: pic.twitter.com/61iylpd3hj
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) January 15, 2026
The sequence underscores how the organization has shifted its focus away from Tucker and toward reshaping depth in other areas.
Tucker’s next contract is expected to exceed the value of Bregman’s deal, and the Cubs would have been forced into a bidding war with the Mets, Dodgers and Blue Jays, three clubs that appear to have far greater payroll flexibility.
In choosing Bregman, Chicago secured not only a proven offensive contributor but also a respected clubhouse presence who arrives with a decorated track record. Bregman is a three‑time All‑Star, two‑time World Series champion, Gold Glove winner and Silver Slugger recipient.
His accomplishments provide the Cubs with both leadership and production, giving them a franchise superstar as they look to build a more balanced roster for the years ahead.
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