When discussions arise about where free-agent Kyle Tucker might sign next, the Chicago Cubs are rarely mentioned. So it wasn’t shocking when manager Craig Counsell essentially confirmed what many fans already suspected: Tucker won’t be back at Wrigley Field in 2026.
Counsell offered some insight into the Cubs’ current situation and eased some concerns, noting that the club does have a plan to replace the All-Star outfielder. The Cubs acquired Tucker from the Houston Astros on December 13, 2024, in exchange for Isaac Paredes, Cam Smith, and Hayden Wesneski. In his lone season with Chicago, Tucker—who was approaching free agency—hit .266/.377/.464 with 22 home runs and 73 RBIs across 136 games.
Craig Counsell: Tucker Is the Major Loss This Offseason
Fans had been wondering if or when the Cubs might try to re-sign Tucker, but Counsell provided clarity.
“From a position-player standpoint, the loss right now is Tucker obviously,” he told The Athletic. “The rest of the group is back and likely with us.”
It’s understandably frustrating for Cubs fans that the team will lose Tucker for nothing—especially after dealing Cody Bellinger the previous year and getting no on-field contribution from the player acquired in return. It’s even harder to swallow knowing they gave up Paredes, an All-Star in Houston, and Smith, who hit nine home runs, for just one year of Tucker—one that wasn’t even among his best.
Still, Counsell supported the front office’s decision not to pursue Tucker if it meant they could strengthen the roster elsewhere.
“You’re just trying to fortify the roster as a whole,” Counsell said. “More depth on the position-player side would be helpful. We were extremely healthy last year, so adding depth is important.”
Cubs Plan to Replace Tucker From Within
Despite Tucker’s down year compared to his 2024 performance, he still posted a 4.6 bWAR—tied for third on the team with first baseman Michael Busch. Without him, the Cubs likely win around 87 games and may not make it past the Wild Card round.
Yet Counsell indicated that the team expects internal options to help fill the void. Chicago is looking to top prospects Owen Cassie (23) and Moisés Ballesteros (22) to step into larger roles.
“We have young players that contributed in a big way,” Counsell said. “Moisés essentially gave us Tucker’s offensive production in September. Between him and Owen—who was unfortunately hurt most of that month—those are two key players for us right now.”
Cassie appeared in 12 games with 27 plate appearances, posting a .568 OPS. Ballesteros had a larger sample, recording a 151 OPS+ with two home runs in 20 games.