The season has just kicked off, but free agency chatter is already heating up. Particularly around the Chicago Cubs‘ newest star, Kyle Tucker. After landing in the Windy City last December via a blockbuster trade with the Houston Astros, Tucker wasted no time proving his worth, becoming a centerpiece in the Cubs’ push to end their playoff drought. Now, as he continues to shine in Cubbie blue, a big question looms: Will the Cubs keep him beyond the 2025 season? While extending Tucker is certainly possible, whether the team can afford what’s likely to be a massive contract remains uncertain. And if they don’t retain him? Well, insiders are already speculating on what that scenario could mean for his future.
Tucker is undeniably a massive talent, but an insider even went as far as comparing him to Juan Soto. If the Cubs choose not to extend Tucker’s contract, he could hit free agency, where he might land deals as big as Soto’s. When asked about whether there’s any chance of the Cubs extending Tucker’s contract, MLB executive Jim Bowden weighed in with his perpective, “I doubt you’ll see the Cubs sign Tucker this season because I think he’ll wisely want to become a free agent to establish his value on the open market.”

For Bowden, it seems unlikely that the Cubs will extend Tucker’s contract given their previous spending patterns. However, how come Tucker’s free agency draws parallels with Soto, who landed the historic $765 million, 15-year contract from the New York Mets last December?

Bowden continued, saying, “If Juan Soto is worth $765 million in free agency, how much is Tucker worth? 650? 600? 550? 500? I don’t think anyone knows until he gets there.” It’s quite justified. Despite missing a major portion of the 2024 season due to an injury, Tucker still managed to post a .289/.408/.585 slash line, scoring 23 home runs in 78 games. In comparison, Soto had an average of .288, 109 RBIs, and scored 41 homers while playing the entire previous season.

Interestingly, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is in a similar situation to Tucker. The difference is that the Toronto Blue Jays’ ace first baseman is actively chasing a lucrative contract worthy of his contrubutions in the team. There have been reports that he is seeking $500 million; however the Blue Jays have been reluctant to agree to the terms.

So, it’s very likely that Tucker will fetch a nine-figure price tag. The Cubs may not go that far, although the probability isn’t zero at all. Moreover, the way Kyle Tucker made an explosive comeback this season, there might be room for a remote chance, right?

Kyle Tucker’s explosive start in Cubs jersey

The acquisition of the outfielder was probably one of the best decisions the Cubs made in 2024. His presence in the team has already transformed the lineup dynamics, and now, his explosive start is making a significant impact. In the last ten games, Tucker has showcased his skills prominently, posting four home runs and making five doubles. He has also batted at a .302 average in 2025, with a .444 OBP and 1.142 OPS, which is quite impressive. But that’s not all!

Tucker also has a good strikeout rate and a 17.8 percent walk rate, along with 0.9 WAR, which is currently the highest in the majors. All in all, Tucker has been continuing his good form even after coming from an injury. Furthermore, his excellent fielding skills and error-free record across 70 innings strengthen his position as a cornerstone both offensively and defensively. The future holds a lot of promise for him, as the Cubs will seek a good, long-term commitment from him.

However, will the Chicago Cubs finally be able to afford Kyle Tucker’s contract extension? The answer remains to be seen.