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Cubs predicted to pair Kyle Tucker, Pete Crow-Armstrong with 68-home run youngster

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Sam Bernardi | Last updated Jul 8, 2025 6:38 PM ET

It is never too early to plan for the future.

While the Chicago Cubs have their sights set on a National League Central crown (and more) this summer, the draft is also quickly approaching. Bleacher Report recently mocked Texas A&M University outfielder Jace LaViolette to Chicago.

Kyle Tucker is a pending free agent, and Pete Crow-Armstrong is due for a significant pay bump this offseason. Even if the Cubs can retain their All-Stars, adding someone like LaViolette to the system would ease some of those contract concerns.

LaViolette has been highly productive for the Aggies over the last three years. Over 188 games and 680 at-bats, he has a .285 batting average, a 1.083 OPS, 68 home runs, 200 RBI, 32 stolen bases and a 169:222 BB:K ratio.

At 6-foot-6, he has the left-handed swing and the natural power to excel in the majors. LaViolette is also a primary center fielder for A&M, but also has the athleticism and instincts to secure the corners.

Chicago also has an intriguing pool of outfielders, including No. 1 Owen Caissie and No. 4 Kevin Alcántara. Adding to this pipeline, which relies on Tucker, Crow-Armstrong and Ian Happ, would set the Cubs up nicely for the foreseeable future.

Should Chicago draft LaViolette next week, it could also give it some flexibility on the trade market. Perhaps one of Cassie or Alcántara becomes more expendable for starting pitching or third base help.

Regardless of who the Cubs select, the story will remain about Tucker's and Crow-Armstrong’s future with the organization.

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

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