The Chicago Cubs have reportedly shown interest in trading for Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker, a move that could significantly enhance their lineup for the upcoming season. Tucker, a pivotal contributor to the Astros’ 2022 World Series victory, is entering his prime at 28 years old and set to hit free agency after the 2025 season. This trade interest comes amid the Astros’ apparent shift toward a “retooling” phase following years of postseason dominance. With their farm system depleted from past trades, the Astros are open to offers for both Tucker and left-handed pitcher Framber Valdez as they aim to rebuild their prospect depth.
Tucker’s performance on the field highlights his value. Despite being limited to 78 games last season due to a shin contusion, he posted impressive numbers, including a .289 batting average, .408 on-base percentage, and .585 slugging percentage, resulting in a .993 OPS and a 181 OPS+. His ability to contribute offensively with 23 home runs, 49 RBIs, and 11 stolen bases in just half a season underscores why he’s viewed as a potential top-tier acquisition. Moreover, Tucker is a versatile outfielder with a career fielding percentage of .992 in right field, making him an asset both offensively and defensively.
For the Cubs, acquiring Tucker would address a critical need in their outfield and bolster their offensive capabilities. Their current outfield setup includes Ian Happ, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and a rotation between Cody Bellinger and Seiya Suzuki in right field and designated hitter roles. However, the Cubs are reportedly eager to move off Bellinger’s contract, which still guarantees him $32.5 million over the next two seasons. Including Bellinger in a trade package for Tucker could benefit both teams, as the Astros also have gaps to fill in their outfield and at first base.
The Astros’ financial strategy complicates retaining Tucker. Historically, they have avoided offering contracts exceeding six years or $200 million, which makes extending Tucker—a player likely to command a deal comparable to Bryce Harper’s or Mike Trout’s mega-contracts—unlikely. Instead, the Astros could seek a trade that returns immediate Major League-ready talent and prospects.
A potential trade package could involve the Cubs sending Bellinger, along with top prospects Owen Caissie (ranked #2 in the Cubs’ system and #34 in MLB) and Cade Horton (#3 Cubs, #42 MLB), to Houston. In return, the Cubs would receive Tucker and possibly a reliever like Ryan Pressly, a proven closer with 112 career saves. This deal would provide the Astros with an affordable solution at first base, an up-and-coming outfield option in Caissie, and a promising arm in Horton to fortify their rotation.
From the Cubs’ perspective, adding Tucker would elevate their offense by integrating a player with elite hitting and defensive skills. Tucker’s resemblance to Juan Soto in terms of offensive prowess, combined with his reliable glove, would be a significant upgrade in right field. Additionally, acquiring Pressly would strengthen their bullpen, giving them a dependable late-game option.
This move would align with the Cubs’ recent strategy of making targeted improvements. While they have already added Matt Boyd for rotational depth, Carson Kelly as a backup catcher, and Eli Morgan to the bullpen, landing Tucker and Pressly would represent a significant leap forward. Even if this were their only major move during the Winter Meetings, it would solidify the Cubs as serious contenders in the National League. However, for the Cubs to maximize the long-term value of this trade, they would need to promptly negotiate an extension with Tucker, ensuring he remains a centerpiece of their roster beyond 2025.
