The Philadelphia Phillies could have a chance to sign outfielder Kyle Tucker during the upcoming offseason, depending on whether he reaches free agency. Although it is not yet clear if Tucker will enter the free-agent market, the Chicago Cubs may offer him a deal before winter to keep him in their lineup. The Kyle Tucker potential offseason signing Phillies discussion hinges on these developments and uncertainties surrounding Tucker’s contract status.
While most sources indicate Tucker may test free agency, even if he prefers to remain with Chicago, Philadelphia appears poised to step in should he become available. The Phillies are aware of the opportunity, especially considering the financial factors influencing both teams.
Cubs’ Financial Challenges Could Open Door for Phillies
The Chicago Cubs face mounting financial pressures due to commitments to several homegrown talents, which could limit their ability to satisfy Kyle Tucker’s salary demands. Notably, Pete Crow-Armstrong, the Cubs’ highly regarded center fielder, is reportedly nearing a contract value around $140 million, a figure much higher than expected and adding to Chicago’s payroll strain.
Jon Heyman of the New York Post shared insights on 670 The Score’s Mully & Hugh Show, saying,
“But the Cubs have been watching,”
as Tucker’s value continues to rise with his impressive performances. Heyman also noted,
“That said, it’s going to be that much more difficult. While he probably or might have signed, I’m guessing now, if he might have signed for, you know, 90 million earlier, you know, maybe it’d be 140 million now, something, you know, I mean, it’s going to it’s the price is going up exponentially based on his play.”
The Cubs’ rising payroll commitments to Crow-Armstrong and others could make it hard to offer Tucker the lucrative contract he might expect. This scenario could potentially give the Phillies leverage if the Cubs hesitate to match Tucker’s price tag.
Opportunity Looms for Phillies If Cubs Scale Back on Tucker
Should Chicago decide not to meet Kyle Tucker’s contract expectations due to budget constraints or organizational priorities, Philadelphia must be ready to act quickly. The Phillies would be in a strong position to pursue Tucker aggressively, adding a valuable player to their roster.
This offseason could prove pivotal for the Phillies as they evaluate their chances to land a strong outfielder amid the shifting dynamics of Cubs’ payroll and player valuations. How the Cubs balance their investments in Crow-Armstrong and Tucker may ultimately decide whether the Phillie’s Kyle Tucker potential offseason signing comes to fruition.