Sources Confirm Cubs Have Discussed Extension with Kyle Tucker

Kyle Tucker‘s contract situation has been a hot topic as of late, with fans wanting him extended as soon as possible. Sources have informed CI that contract discussions have indeed taken place, although nothing is imminent.

Mike Rodriguez reported on Thursday that the Cubs and Tucker had discussed an extension, leading to conversations about whether Tucker would sign a contract before hitting the open market. While a lowball offer is sure to send Tucker into free agency, a reasonably valued deal could persuade the superstar to make Wrigley Field his home for the next decade.

The right-fielder entered Sunday with 1.3 fWAR, the second most in Major League Baseball. His 18 runs scored lead all of baseball as well. He’s helped the Cubs’ offense score a league-leading 112 runs. Tucker has also reached base in every game but Opening Day, which took place in Tokyo. After a rough Spring Training, there’s no doubt that the Cubs got a star in King Tuck.

When the Cubs traded for Tucker in December, all eyes turned towards a possible extension. The Astros acquired top prospect Cam Smith, All-Star Isaac Paredes, and Hayden Wesneski in the deal for Tucker, one of the most valuable players in baseball, but the trade won’t be as beneficial if he leaves after one year in Chicago. Extending Tucker not only would show fans that the Cubs are willing to spend like a big market team, but it also locks up a franchise cornerstone for the rest of his career.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. recently signed a 14-year deal worth $500 million, which may give the Cubs a blueprint for what Tucker is set to earn. Tucker will be three years older than Guerrero Jr. when the extension is signed, but they’re both extremely valuable players. 

Jason Heyward currently owns the most expensive contract in Cubs history at $184 million. If Tucker stays in Chicago, he’ll certainly get more than that. As of now, Tom Ricketts has not shown the willingness to spend money in order to retain good players. The Cubs are one of the most valuable teams in baseball, yet they’re repeatedly in the middle of baseball when it comes to payroll. 

The likelihood of an extension with Tucker still feels unlikely, but the fact that they’re discussing the possibility should give fans hope. Ricketts has the chance to either be forgiven for his previous lack of spending or continue to cement himself as a penny-pinching owner.