Probably the biggest fish in the ocean that is the free agent market, Kyle Tucker still has not found his next destination in major league baseball. So far, nothing unusual.
However, the star outfielder's case could drag on longer than usual. Indeed, according to Jeff Passan of the ESPN networkwe may have to wait until 2026 to see an outcome.
The market for the best free agent of the crop could potentially extend into the new year. Ultimately, no one can improve a team like Tucker, and whether it's Toronto, Philadelphia, or a New York team, Tucker will get a 10+ year contract for over $300 million, with an even higher cap hit possibly.
Two things to remember here.
First, there appear to be four suitors to acquire Tucker's services, including the Toronto Blue Jays.
Second, no matter where he lands, the 28-year-old will be finalizing a huge pact in the coming weeks, despite being slowed by injuries the last two seasons and having a month-and-a-half slump in 2025.
In 136 games for the Chicago Cubs this season, Tucker posted a .266 batting average, hit 22 home runs, produced 73 RBIs and had a 4.6 WAR. His career OPS+ is now 140 and he has a WAR per 162 games average of 5.8. It's not nothing and it has to be paid for.
The Cubs, for their part, will not be in the derby, they who had paid dearly to get their hands on him, but who will lose him for absolutely nothing. Good management (insert a little sarcasm here).
