Cubs and Kyle Tucker Avoid Arbitration with $16.5M Deal for 2025
The Chicago Cubs and newly acquired outfielder Kyle Tucker have agreed on a $16.5 million contract for the 2025 season, successfully avoiding arbitration. The deal, reported by ESPN and other outlets on Thursday, comes after the Cubs acquired Tucker in a blockbuster trade with the Houston Astros last month.
Trade Details
The Cubs secured Tucker by trading infielder Isaac Paredes, right-hander Hayden Wesneski, and their 2024 first-round draft pick, Cam Smith, to the Astros. The trade marked a significant move for both franchises, with the Cubs bolstering their outfield and the Astros adding promising young talent.
Arbitration Avoided
Initially, it seemed the Cubs and Tucker were headed for arbitration, as the two parties filed differing salary requests earlier this month. Tucker filed at $17.5 million, while the Cubs countered at $15 million. The $16.5 million agreement represents a middle ground that satisfies both sides.
Tucker’s Career Highlights
Tucker, who turns 28 this Friday, is transitioning to a new team for the first time in his career. He spent seven major league seasons with the Astros after debuting in 2018. Over 633 games with Houston, Tucker established himself as a consistent performer, boasting a career batting average of .274, with 125 home runs, 135 doubles, and 417 RBIs.
Tucker’s accolades include being named an All-Star in each of the past three seasons. Despite missing over three months in 2024 due to a small fracture in his right shin caused by a foul ball in June, he remains one of the league’s premier outfielders.
Looking Ahead
The addition of Tucker strengthens the Cubs’ roster and provides a proven bat and defensive presence in the outfield. With arbitration behind them, the team can now focus on preparing for the upcoming season, where Tucker will play a key role in their pursuit of success.
