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The one question that everyone wants to know as the Chicago Cubs look for starting pitching ahead of the MLB Trade Deadline is how aggressive the team will be. Of course, the connection is that the Cubs traded for Kyle Tucker over the offseason without the assurance that Tucker would sign an extension. Lingering in the background of all the success the Cubs have had this season is whether or not Tucker's time with the team will be one-and-done.
Tucker was asked on Wednesday where things stand on extension talks, and like Jed Hoyer, he didn't reveal any details that moved the needle in either direction. That said, the one thing the Cubs were hoping for appears to be happening. Tucker appears to be falling in love with the Cubs and the city of Chicago.
“It’s been nice,” Tucker told reporters. “It’s a lot warmer now, so it’s nice, and the wind’s been blowing out recently. That helps. The city itself is really nice. Obviously, everyone there are really big Cubs fans and love coming to Wrigley. It’s a city that thrives on their sports and wants to see their teams win and succeed. We just try and go out there and do our best to give them that. It’s been a lot of fun to be a part of that.”
Kyle Tucker gives Cubs fans something to smile about
Tucker falling in love with the Cubs' organization and Chicago seemed to be a no-brainer. However, if the Cubs are relying on that being the primary reason for his return, they would be severely misguided. Tucker is going to be the top free-agent bat available this offseason, and the Cubs can't bank on their goodwill as the reason why he will choose them over a top-tier offer from a team like the Boston Red Sox or Philadelphia Phillies. The New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers are also likely to be involved in the bidding.
The good news is that the Cubs seem to be willing to take on money that extends beyond the 2026 season. Despite a potential work stoppage during the 2027 season, the Cubs' reported interest in Mitch Keller is a sign they are willing to take on money for that season and beyond.