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Cubs Coach Could Make Big Career Move Amid $600 Million Kyle Tucker News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jake Elman | Last updated May 27, 2025 6:56 PM ET

For now, All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker and former MLB infielder Ryan Flaherty are united in leading the Chicago Cubs to their first title since 2016.

Come the offseason, both player and coach could be leaving Chicago for cities elsewhere—unless, of course, Tucker is interested in mashing home runs onto Eutaw Street.

Two of baseball’s most prominent insiders have recently outlined specific paths for Tucker and Flaherty. The Athletic’s Jim Bowden suggested earlier this month that Tucker, a former MVP finalist, might command a $600 million contract in free agency.

Meanwhile, USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported on Sunday that Flaherty is the “leading candidate” to earn the Baltimore Orioles’ full-time manager position. It is unclear if Baltimore will interview interim manager Tony Mansolino, let alone offer him the full-time position.

Flaherty served as the San Diego Padres’ manager in June 2022 after Bob Melvin entered COVID-19 protocols. The Padres interviewed Flaherty for their managerial opening following the 2023 season but hired Mike Shildt instead.

Orioles fans nonetheless know Flaherty well. The 2008 first-round pick hit .215 with a .629 OPS in 452 games for the O’s from 2012-17, serving as a key piece on the 2012 and 2014 playoff teams.

Although Flaherty primarily played second base in Baltimore, he suited up at every position but catcher and center field—and that includes a one-inning pitching outing in 2016.

Tucker, meanwhile, entered Tuesday hitting .280 with 12 home runs, 39 RBI, an impressive .912 OPS, and a 2.1 bWAR. The 28-year-old already boasts 15 stolen bases, putting him well in position for his first 30-30 season.

Bowden believes the usual candidates—the Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Yankees, and Philadelphia Phillies—will pursue Tucker in free agency. We’ll see if the Orioles make a play for Tucker, especially if they look to restore faith following a potential 90-loss season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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