The Chicago Cubs are on the rise in 2025, with top star and Kyle Tucker leading the charge. Former Cubs outfielder Dexter Fowler sees one of them as the cornerstone of the franchise. However, for the front office, the key decision isn’t just identifying the future—it’s deciding which player is worth a long-term financial commitment.
“PCA is a foundational piece—he’s a rising star,” Dexter Fowler told CBS Sports this week. And that’s not just a former player hyping up a prospect; it’s quickly becoming reality.
At just 23 years old, veteran star is in the midst of a breakout season. After a quiet rookie campaign, he’s now hitting .287/.319/.589 with 14 home runs, 45 RBIs, and 14 stolen bases. His 3.0 WAR ranks second in MLB, behind only Aaron Judge, and he’s also earning praise as one of the league’s top defensive center fielders. Caesars currently lists his MVP odds at +1000—higher than stars like Juan Soto and Bryce Harper.
This isn’t just a streak—Crow-Armstrong is establishing himself as a long-term force. Fowler, who played center field for the Cubs during their 2016 World Series run, believes he sees a familiar story unfolding. “He plays to win, he plays with joy, and he fits perfectly as a Cub,” Fowler said. “He’s exactly the kind of guy you want anchoring your outfield.”
Tucker Brings the Proven Pedigree
He may be the kind of player you want, but Kyle Tucker is the kind of player you need.
In his debut season with the Cubs, Tucker has firmly positioned himself as a serious NL MVP candidate. Signed in the offseason as a free agent, he’s lived up to every expectation—bringing power, plate discipline, consistent run production, and the kind of postseason experience a contending team values. With MVP odds sitting at +700, Tucker has quickly become one of the most dangerous left-handed hitters in baseball.
The Front Office Decision: Who Gets Paid First?
So, who do you prioritize for a long-term deal?
Pete Crow-Armstrong remains under team control for several more years, and while his value is rising with every big play, the Cubs still have time before making a major financial decision. Kyle Tucker, on the other hand, will require a hefty contract extension soon—or risk hitting free agency right at the peak of his career.
For President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyer, it’s both an opportunity and a dilemma. Chicago has assembled one of the most well-rounded offenses in the league, ranking top five in doubles, triples, home runs, walks, and total runs. Even with one of baseball’s toughest schedules, the Cubs boast a +90 run differential and sit atop the NL Central. This isn’t a fluke—they’re a real contender.
Securing Tucker with a long-term deal would make a bold statement to the rest of the league: the Cubs aren’t just flirting with playoff potential—they’re chasing a championship.
This Can’t Be a Choice Between the Two
Letting go of Pete Crow-Armstrong would be unthinkable. His play is electric, his personality perfectly suits Chicago, and his development trajectory shows he’s only getting better. He has the potential to be the next franchise cornerstone—like Javy Báez or Anthony Rizzo—but with even more tools.
So the solution isn’t choosing between him and Kyle Tucker. It’s finding a way to keep both.
Lock Tucker in with a major contract to prove to him—and the fan base—that the Cubs are all-in. But at the same time, begin quietly working on a long-term extension for Crow-Armstrong. Buy out his arbitration years, front-load the deal if needed—just don’t let it reach a point where the team is forced to decide between them.
Time to Make a Statement
For the first time since 2016, the Cubs don’t need to choose. They have the roster, the momentum, and a clear championship window. The only thing that could throw them off course now is hesitation.
Dexter Fowler sees the long-term answer in center field—and it’s up to the front office to make sure both the present and future are secured.