The Chicago Cubs have kicked off the 2025 MLB season on a high note, overcoming one of the most difficult early-season schedules of any team. After Thursday’s victory in Pittsburgh, the Cubs improved to a 19-13 record, leading the National League Central by two games over the Milwaukee Brewers.
League-Leading Offense
Beyond their solid win-loss record, the Cubs have also showcased the most potent offense in the majors. Chicago leads all of Major League Baseball in total runs scored (192) and stolen bases (44). They also rank in the top three in several key offensive metrics, including OPS (.799), slugging percentage (.457), home runs (46), and walks drawn (128).
The offensive surge has been driven by strong performances from players such as Pete Crow-Armstrong, Carson Kelly, Michael Busch, and Seiya Suzuki. However, the most impactful contributor has undoubtedly been newly acquired right fielder .
Tucker’s Impact on the Cubs
Since joining the team during the offseason, Kyle Tucker has lived up to and exceeded expectations. Through 32 games, he is hitting .278 with a .387 on-base percentage and a .563 slugging percentage, resulting in an impressive .950 OPS and a 167 wRC+ (weighted runs created plus). He has already accumulated 1.4 Wins Above Replacement (bWAR), underscoring his immediate value to the lineup.
A three-time All-Star, he has filled the superstar void left after Chicago’s World Series core was dismantled. His presence has been a game-changer for a team aiming to re-establish itself as a contender.
Contract Uncertainty Looms
Despite his outstanding performance, there is a looming concern regarding Kyle Tucker’s long-term future with the Cubs. The Houston Astros traded him to Chicago with just one year remaining under team control, meaning he is set to become a free agent after this season.
The Cubs are reportedly eager to avoid the chaos of offseason bidding wars by locking Tucker into a long-term extension during the current season. To do so, they may need to make a financial commitment that matches Tucker’s elite status.
Cubs Reportedly Willing to Spend Big
According to Chicago sports personality David Kaplan on a recent episode of the Cubs REKAP Podcast, the organization is preparing to go all in to keep Tucker in Chicago. Kaplan said, “I’m hearing that the Cubs have wrapped their brain around ‘Whatever it costs, we’re paying it.’ And they want to keep Tucker.”
He later reiterated his confidence in the Cubs’ intentions, telling co-host Gordon Wittenmyer, “I believe wholeheartedly they will get the deal done with him if he wants to be here. I believe they are convinced they gotta break the bank for him.”
This represents one of the clearest indications yet that the Cubs are not only interested in retaining Tucker but are also willing to meet his price tag—whatever it may be.
While there have been rumors that initial discussions may have begun, no official negotiations have been confirmed. Nevertheless, if the Cubs can finalize a long-term deal with Tucker, it could be a signature achievement for President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer—possibly even securing his own future with the franchise.
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