Chicago Cubs' potential Kyle Tucker trade package revealed

The idea of the Houston Astros trading superstar Kyle Tucker has moved from being a thought exercise at the Winter Meetings to a move that may be trending toward being pushed across the finish line.

The Cubs are at the center of the trade talks.

According to local and national reports, the Cubs are making a push to acquire Tucker, an update Joel Sherman of the New York Post has revealed their potential package.

"The Astros are prioritizing major league-ready corner infielders and starting pitching if they move Tucker. In first baseman Matt Shaw (the Cubs’ top prospect, according to MLB.com), third baseman Cam Smith and 2024 All-Star Isaac Paredes, Chicago has pieces that are attractive to Houston, which is bracing to lose third baseman Alex Bregman in free agency."

Sherman's report was through the lens of the Yankees' perspective, who may be eyeing Tucker as an addition to their lineup after failing to bring back Juan Soto. However, in that reporting, Sherman characterized the Cubs as being a "strong player" for Tucker. It read as if Sherman believed the Yankees were behind the Cubs in terms of the trade sweepstakes for Tucker.

While Tucker is set to become a free agent following the 2025 season, a potential trade is going to see the Cubs trade from the top of their prospects rankings. While Matt Shaw would likely only be included in the deal if the Cubs have the assurance that Tucker would sign an extension, it's no surprise that Cam Smith is mentioned as a potential prospect included in the Cubs' trade package. Speaking of Shaw, if the Cubs do include Isaac Paredes in a trade for Tucker, that would open third base for the team's top prospect.

The latest report from Sherman isn't confirmation that the Cubs will be able to finalize their trade for Tucker but it speaks to the aggressive nature with which Jed Hoyer's front office may be handling these negotiations. Tucker would transform the Cubs' lineup while instantly pushing the Cubs closer to their 90-win goal.