The Chicago Cubs took a meaningful step forward in 2025, snapping a four-year postseason drought and giving fans a reason to believe again. A big part of that resurgence came from Kyle Tucker, who brought his left-handed power and All-Star pedigree to Wrigley for what turned out to be a one-year stint.
Tucker’s first half was electric-he looked every bit the elite outfielder he’s been in recent years. But as the season wore on, the production slowed, and a September calf strain sent him to the injured list, cutting short what had started as a standout campaign.
Even with the late-season dip, Tucker still finished with a solid .266/.377/.464 slash line, 22 homers, 73 RBIs, and a 143 OPS+. That’s high-level production, and it’s why he enters this offseason as one of the top names on the free-agent market. Naturally, that’s sparked plenty of speculation about where he might land-and whether a return to Chicago could be in the cards.
But according to MLB insider Jon Heyman, that door appears firmly shut. On Tuesday, Heyman laid it out plainly: he doesn’t see Tucker re-signing with the Cubs.
The reasoning? It comes down to money-and history.
“The Cubs’ ownership isn’t a crazy, wild, spending team,” Heyman said in an interview. “Tucker, I think, is too rich for the Chicago Cubs.”
That’s a sentiment that lines up with how the organization has typically operated in recent offseasons. While they’ve made targeted moves, they’ve rarely gone all-in on the top-tier free agents, and Heyman doesn’t expect that to change now.
It’s a tough pill for Cubs fans who might’ve hoped for a reunion. Tucker brought star power and production to the lineup, and even with the second-half struggles, his presence helped elevate the offense. But with his market expected to command a hefty price tag, the Cubs look more likely to seek value elsewhere.
One move they have made is bringing in veteran right-hander Phil Maton on a two-year, $14.5 million deal. The 32-year-old reliever is coming off a strong season split between the Cardinals and Rangers, and he gives the Cubs a reliable bullpen arm with postseason experience and a proven ability to miss bats.
Maton’s deal includes a $5.5 million salary in 2026, rising to $6 million in 2027. There’s also an $8.5 million club option for 2028, with a $3.5 million buyout.
On top of that, he can earn performance bonuses based on appearances-$125,000 each for hitting 40 and 50 games pitched in the first two years. If the Cubs pick up that option for a third season, those bonuses double to $250,000.
It’s a classic Cubs move: a calculated investment in a high-floor, mid-tier free agent who can bolster the roster without breaking the bank. And while it may not generate the same buzz as a Tucker reunion, it’s a sign that the front office is still looking to build a competitive roster-just not by chasing the biggest fish in the free-agent pond.
As for Tucker, his next destination remains one of the biggest storylines of the offseason. At 28 years old with four All-Star nods and a strong track record at the plate, he’s going to get paid.
Whether it’s a team looking to make a splash or a contender needing a final piece, someone’s going to pony up. It just doesn’t look like it’ll be the Cubs.