Cubs Face Offseason Uncertainty as Kyle Tucker Joins Free Agency
The conclusion of the Major League Baseball season marks the beginning of a new chapter for teams and players alike, as free agency looms just on the horizon. The Chicago Cubs are at the center of this offseason drama, with ten players, including right fielder Kyle Tucker, officially opting for free agency. This decision, while significant, comes as little surprise given the ongoing turmoil within the organization.
The Free Agency Landscape
As the final out of the World Series was recorded, the five-day quiet period commenced, limiting player movements outside their current teams. Now, the Cubs find themselves with a roster full of uncertainty as Tucker and nine other teammates have chosen to pursue free agency. The decision reflects not only Tucker’s personal ambitions but also the shifting dynamics of the Cubs’ roster following a season that saw both highs and lows.
Tucker’s journey with the Cubs has been tumultuous, particularly during the latter half of the season, where his performance dipped significantly. This decline raises questions about the type of contract he might command as he seeks a new home. His previous struggles with the Houston Astros, which ultimately led to his trade, were influenced by the hefty contract he was likely to attract — a narrative that continues to unfold in Chicago.
A Roster in Flux
Kyle Tucker isn’t the only player potentially bidding farewell to the Cubs’ 92-win roster. The list of free agents includes:
Caleb Thielbar – LHP
Drew Pomeranz – LHP
Aaron Civale – RHP
Taylor Rogers – LHP
Ryan Braiser – RHP
Willi Castro – LF
Carlos Santana – 1B
Brad Keller – RHP
Michael Soroka – RHP
The departure of pitchers like Keller, Thielbar, and Pomeranz would be particularly impactful, as they were the third most-utilized pitchers on the Cubs’ staff, averaging 64 appearances between them. Losing these key arms could leave the Cubs’ bullpen in a precarious position, increasing the urgency for management to address pitching depth in the offseason.
The Need for Reinforcements
As the Cubs strategize for the future, the need for reliable pitching becomes more pressing. With Justin Steele recovering from Tommy John surgery and unlikely to return until the early months of 2026, the Cubs face a significant gap in their rotation. The limited impact of Michael Soroka, who joined the team at the trade deadline but managed just one start before landing on the injured list, exacerbates this concern.
Utility player Willi Castro’s status is also uncertain. Having bounced between left field and third base, his role on the team has become muddled, particularly with Ian Happ solidifying his place in left and rookie Matt Shaw earning a Gold Glove nomination at third. Castro’s search for a more defined role elsewhere is understandable given the competition he faces.
As the offseason progresses, the Cubs will need to navigate the complexities of free agency, balancing the desire to retain talent like Tucker against the realities of a roster that demands fresh strategies and reinforcements. The choices made in the coming weeks will not only shape the immediate future of the team but also set the tone for the Cubs’ long-term aspirations.
