The Chicago Cubs were rumored to be in on Chicago White Sox star pitcher Garrett Crochet. Unfortunately for the Cubs, Crochet has landed with the Boston Red Sox in a blockbuster deal.
Now, Cubs general manager Jed Hoyer is tasked with making a move that makes up for whiffing on Crochet. The Cubs already have a good bit of money tied up on their payroll, so, they may need to look for a blockbuster trade to boost their roster.
FanSided's Mark Powell recently made a direct connection for the Cubs to Houston Astros star outfielder Kyle Tucker. Tucker is a rumored target of Chicago's, but Powell emphasized how important it is for the Cubs to land him.
"The most obvious response for the Cubs and Jed Hoyer is to trade for Kyle Tucker, a player they have already been connected to. Tucker is an elite offensive player and had a WAR over four in just under 80 games last season," Powell wrote. "He has made three straight All-Star games and is just 27 years old. For some reason beyond my comprehension, he is available! The Cubs ought to pounce while they have the chance."
A Cubs trade for Tucker would likely begin with big-league pieces like Seiya Suzuki or Isaac Paredes. Chicago could also look to move Cody Bellinger or starting pitching in the deal. After that, prospects would likely be involved.
Any deal for Tucker should be seen as a rental. There's a near-zero percent chance Tucker signs an extension before he hits free agency at the end of the 2025 season. Early projections have Tucker valued anywhere between $195 million (Spotrac) to north of $300 million when he hits unrestricted free agency.
