It would be wrong if you think Juan Soto and Shohei Ohtani were the last crop to yield huge prices. The upcoming offseason post-2025 will witness a few intense sweepstakes with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Kyle Tucker. While Guerrero is well-hyped to make it big next year, Tucker came as a surprise. As ridiculous as it gets, a few MLB insiders are predicting a Soto-like contention for Tucker, if not better. So, what’s special about Tucker when pitted against Soto? Which teams are predicted to go behind Tucker?
The Cubs made the historic acquisition of Astros’ standout outfielder Kyle Tucker earlier this offseason. The Cubs were heavily criticized for this transaction since they acquired Tucker for a year-long contract only. However, it reflects the value Tucker offers. According to FanGraphs, Tucker had a 180 wRC+ and 4.2 WAR in just 78 games before his injury in 2024, putting him on pace for an MVP-caliber season. Soto’s career BA stands at .285, while Tucker’s stands at .274. Enough for the MLB insider Jim Bowden to predict something bold.
“The numbers are crazy these days, but if he has a Tucker-like year, how can he not command $400 million or more?” Bowden said, via ESPN. “I’m not saying this either way, but some people believe he’s better than Soto.” Well, Tucker seems to have skyrocketed in value post-2025. However, will the teams be interested in investing big in a 29-year-old outfielder?
“After a strong season with the Cubs, Kyle Tucker signs a 14-year, $604 million contract with the Phillies in free agency. The deal includes significant deferrals,” Bowden wrote. So yes, teams like the Phillies are in contention for Tucker. But, who will have the final call is the real question!
Which team would make the last laugh with Tucker?
Tucker is going to have a lot of limelight over his bidding post-2025. So, the key question is whether the Cubs will be able to keep the outfielder next winter. Well, the Cubs probably won’t even approach the $600 million or a 14-year contract. Actually, in their history, the Cubs have never made a transaction this size. So, this time, it is also unlikely. The next option? The Yankees. Yes, they are in search of an outfielder, but will they invest big in a 209-year-old? Doubtful.
On the other hand, Tucker’s acquisition by the Phillies makes a lot of sense. Nick Castellanos has two seasons remaining on his five-year, $100 million contract, while Kyle Schwarber is about to enter the final season of his. Tucker would have the right field if Castellanos were to take over as DH if Schwarber decides to sign elsewhere after the 2025 season. Moreover, with a few players like Taijuan Walker leaving the Phillies post this year, the team will have a financial cushion to offer big to Tucker. So, the Phillies will be the front-runner to land Tucker.
The upcoming off-season is still a long away. A few things can go either way in between this. Might be the Cubs come out as the winner, or any other teams can pull off the bet.
Which team do you think would be the logical destination for Tucker? Share your views below.
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