For sure, the Chicago Cubs star Kyle Tucker has some good news right now! It was expected, though not confirmed yet. But yes, as we all know, the names of Cubs Kyle Tucker and Toronto Blue Jays Vladimir Guerrero Jr were already doing the rounds, leaving fans speculating about who’s going to be the winner. Well, it isn’t about their performance; rather, it is about the paycheck that they are going to fetch.

At 28, Kyle Tucker is not just making waves with the Chicago Cubs; he’s positioning himself as one of the premier talents in MLB. His early 2025 season performance underscores this, boasting a .322 batting average, 5 home runs, and 16 RBIs over just 15 games, culminating in an impressive 1.130 OPS . This offensive prowess, combined with his defensive reliability, has analysts predicting a substantial contract in his near future.​ And, as per predictions, the 28-year-old Cubs right fielder seems to be ahead in the race when it comes down to the annual salary.

The Toronto Blue Jays’ slugger, Vladimir Guerrero Jr., has expressed his willingness to stay with the team throughout his career. That’s probably the reason behind signing the All-Star for a $500 million extension. Meanwhile, Kyle Tucker’s future with the Cubs has attracted significant attention and has become a focal point of discussion for many. With several experts weighing the chances of a higher contract for Tucker, MLB expert Paul Hembekides took to X, SHARING, “Kyle Tucker is 2 years older than Vlad Jr. but a demonstrably more well-rounded player. And he’s going to get PAID.”

It’s true, given that Kyle Tucker even had a good 2024 record with a .289 batting average, 23 home runs, 49 RBIs, a .408 OBP, and a .993 OPS. Compared to Tucker, Vladimir Guerrero Jr. managed to bat at an average of .323, posting 30 home runs and 103 RBIs, with a .396 OBP and .940 OPS. However, Hembekides believes that Tucker has more experience, which increases the chances of getting paid more.

He even mentioned Juan Soto ($50 million a year), Aaron Judge ($40 million), and Guerrero Jr. ($36 million). Considering the market conditions, Hembekides further said, “If we are talking years, if you are going to dance with us, the price is probably $429 million over 11 years. I think there is a team out there that might give him 12 for $500 million.”

It’s too early to say whether we will see Tucker getting more than Guerrero Jr. or not. However, given the mettle he has, the Cubs should definitely get him back.

Kyle Tucker should be a must choice for the Chicago Cubs

Amid all the rumors and speculations surrounding Kyle Tucker’s paycheck, the Chicago Cubs $16.5 million star has finally broken his silence. When asked about whether he wants to go to free agency or go with the Cubs offer, Tucker said, “I haven’t thought about it that much. I’m just trying to come out here and play. I’m just here to play baseball. I just let the other stuff fall where it is and see what happens.” Although he hasn’t revealed anything about seeking an extension of the contract, the Chicago Cubs should offer him a good amount and retain him prior to him becoming a free agent. 

Well, the 28-year-old left-handed slugger is off to a great start with the Cubs. In his 15 games, Tucker boasts the highest number of National League runs, hits, and RBIs—16, 19, and 16, respectively. The New York Yankees have been prominently linked to Tucker, viewing him as a potential replacement for Juan Soto, who departed for the Mets. Reports indicate that the Yankees are exploring trade options involving Tucker, especially after bolstering their rotation with the signing of Max Fried. While he continues to show his skills and experience and maybe even become one of the top ten players in MLB, his contract value will also increase, which is good for him.

Do you think Kyle Tucker will be able to fetch a better amount of money when compared to Guerrero Jr.? Do let us know in the comments.