When the Chicago Cubs traded top prospect Cam Smith, All-Star infielder Isaac Paredes, and 27-year-old right-hander Hayden Wesneski to the Houston Astros for superstar Kyle Tucker last December, the excitement was palpable among fans. This blockbuster deal marked the first significant move aimed at shaking up the franchise's fortunes, which have languished since their last playoff advancement back in 2017. Now, with the 2025 Major League Baseball season underway, the Cubs face pressing questions: Is this acquisition enough to make them genuine contenders?
Tucker, who is a three-time All-Star, World Series champion, and perennial MVP candidate, undoubtedly enhances the Cubs' offense, previously relegated to mediocrity, barely finishing above league average last season. This infusion of talent transformed the Cubs' betting odds, with many now projecting them as favorites to win the National League Central, widely regarded as one of the weakest divisions across baseball.
Yet, even with Tucker now on board, he serves as just one aspect of the Cubs' larger strategy. It’s noteworthy, though, is the reality of Tucker's situation: he’s on track to become a free agent at the end of the season. At 29 years old during the next contract negotiations, his market value could soar beyond $300 million—a lucrative price tag reflecting the demand for high-impact players.
The baffling element is why Cubs ownership and president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer didn't capitalize on the trade momentum to fortify the roster around Tucker. Despite fervent fan desires—especially to see high-profile free-agent signings like Alex Bregman after solid exchanges with the Astros—Hoyer’s plans fell short. Instead of making impactful additions, the Cubs made several low-to-mid-level signings, acting as if they were operating under the constraints of a small-market franchise.
The shedding of Cody Bellinger's contract to the New York Yankees was supposed to open up financial flexibility, dropping the Cubs below the luxury tax line by $34 million. They did secure left-hander Matthew Boyd with a two-year, $29 million contract, yet it appears more like replacing lost arms than enhancing the squad altogether. What’s more, their attempt to land top-tier closer Tanner Scott ended with dissatisfaction, culminating again with the Astros, this time acquiring veteran reliever Ryan Pressly.
Significantly, fans feel the weight of anticipation considering the Cubs are one of the most iconic franchises, valued upwards of $5 billion. The team boasts deep-rooted history and passionate support yet decided against matching the financial commitments of several other teams this offseason, such as the Athletics, Angels, and even the Rays who all outspent them. This raising of questions about the Cubs' commitment toward winning raises eyebrows when examining the recent moves over the winter.
Admittedly, the Cubs possess solid potential to make the playoffs, but key factors remain uncertain. FanGraphs projects the Cubs to yield 84 wins this year—paralleling their prior two seasons, which fell short of playoff qualifications. They are well-positioned, though, as they gear up for the Tokyo Series against the stacked Dodgers.
Looking forward, excitement is palpable for the debuts of new talent like 23-year-old third baseman Matt Shaw who’s set to perform at the iconic Tokyo Dome, with stakes high to possibly clinch the NL Rookie of the Year title. Outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong is ready to stake his claim on starting center-field duties, with hopes he can stabilize his performance at the plate. The foundation with veteran players like shortstop Dansby Swanson and second baseman Nico Hoerner enhances the backbone teams usually lean upon for competitive play.
There remains some optimism as Tucker’s arrival suggests the chance for potential standout seasons, like the possibility of him achieving 30 home runs and 30 steals. While attendance at Wrigley Field rarely suffers with this increasingly youthful roster, many fans are left yearning for the assurance of costly investments to secure cleaving talent.
Despite fundamental shifts and growing pains, the Cubs wrestle with deep-seated questions—have they done enough to truly contend? They have embarked upon the next chapter of their story with renewal lurking within their ranks yet remain fundamentally cautious as the stakes continue to rise. This will be increasingly evident as they square off against the Dodgers, where stakes will certainly answer whether this recent trade marks just the beginning of tangible improvements, or if another year slips away without significant postseason promise.
Deesha Thosar is an MLB reporter and columnist for FOX Sports, previously covering the Mets for four years as a beat reporter for the New York Daily News.
Follow her on Twitter at @DeeshaThosar.
