The Chicago Cubs appear likely to lose Kyle Tucker in free agency this winter, just one year after acquiring him in a major offseason trade. Chicago has never issued a contract exceeding $200 million, and Tucker is projected to command a massive $427 million deal, per The Athletic’s Jim Bowden. His free agency is expected to dominate the offseason and could significantly reshape the league depending on his destination.
Matt Johnson of Sportsnaut recently forecasted that Tucker will depart Chicago and sign a blockbuster contract with the San Francisco Giants. Johnson noted that while the Giants have already made notable moves by signing Willy Adames and trading for Rafael Devers, their outfield remains a weakness. Giants outfielders ranked 20th in OPS (.701) last season, falling to .679 after the trade deadline.
Johnson believes San Francisco will look to trade for a starting pitcher to conserve payroll, positioning themselves to win a bidding war for Tucker. Though Tucker has had durability concerns, a fully healthy version of him could give the Giants four hitters capable of 25-plus home runs.
A move of this magnitude may be necessary for the Giants to keep pace in the NL West, especially with the Los Angeles Dodgers also showing interest in Tucker. If the Dodgers were to land him, the competitive gap in the division could widen further. While the Giants have the financial resources to make such an offer, it’s uncertain whether they’ll be willing to match the aggressive spending the Dodgers are known for.
