The Chicago Cubs, a top-tier team in MLB, are reportedly receiving criticism for not utilizing their advantages as a big-market team. This dissatisfaction has intensified with rumors connecting the team to outfielder Kyle Tucker of the Houston Astros (links that have since proved to be correct as Tucker has joined the team)—a game-changing addition that some worried the Cubs might miss out on because of their office’s recent focus on financial caution. After all, Tucker is one of the most productive outfielders in baseball and has come off a stellar 2024. However, just bringing in Tucker might not be enough.
Kyle Tucker’s standout performance included hitting 294 with 34 home runs and 110 RBIs while also stealing 26 bases. Furthermore, his exceptional defensive abilities on the field and noteworthy postseason contributions highlight his worth. The 27-year-old player stands out as a superstar who aligns well with Chicago’s competitive strategy. However, even though, they’ve traded for him now, there are still doubts over the long-term ambition of the Cubs. That’s one of the reasons why a top insider recently lambasted the ownership for not treating the franchise like a big market team.
Cubs ownership faces criticism for neglecting big market potential
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Jeo posted on X mentioned Rosenthal’s criticism of the Cubs: “Imagine if the Cubs included infielder Isaac Paredes in a deal for Tucker, then signed another Astros mainstay, free agent Alex Bregman, to play third base,” adding, “That is the kind of plan the Cubs actually might pursue if owner Tom Ricketts was operating the team as a big-market behemoth, rather than an efficient Midwest bank.”
Since clinching the 2016 World Series title, the Chicago Cubs have shown a pattern of reluctance to make investments. After that victory, the team shifted gears towards reducing costs, resulting in players such as Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Javier Báez leaving. This pattern continued into the 2020s as the Cubs maintained an approach towards spending less despite TV deals and loyal supporters.
In 2024, the Chicago Cubs ended the season with a record of 84-78. Falling short of making it to the playoffs in a division that was mostly controlled by the Milwaukee Brewers, critics believe that the Cubs’s average performance can be attributed to their owners not fully utilizing their resources. Other teams, such as the New York Yankees, the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Texas Rangers, have been known to spend to assemble squads, a strategy that has put the Cubs at a disadvantage.
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The Chicago Cubs would have to invest more than $300 million—to bring him aboard for the long term. However, so far the team’s ownership has not shown a readiness to go all in financially at that scale yet. Even though there are talks about them looking into Tucker as a candidate. Some doubt if these rumors really indicate interest or are just a way to keep fans and media engaged.
The Window Is Open: Why Chicago must act now
The Chicago Cubs are facing a moment where they can’t rely on patience anymore for success. Led by top pitcher Justin Steele, the team is well-equipped to compete in the term. Furthermore, the Chicago Cubs’ farm system ranked 7th by MLB Pipeline in 2024. Showcasing talents like Pete Crow-Armstrong and Cade Horton, this system has stars who are ready to shine soon. And with the addition of the outstanding Kyle Tucker, Chicago can transform from a team on the playoff edge to a contender for the World Series title.
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Failing to act decisively in this moment risks wasting the team’s current momentum. The NL Central is winnable, but the Milwaukee Brewers and Cincinnati Reds are also making strides, creating a narrowing competitive window. Furthermore, Tucker represents a rare opportunity: a superstar in his prime who addresses a key need in the Cubs’ lineup. Missing out on him—or any comparable talent—would not only signal a lack of ambition but could also alienate an already restless fanbase. The Cubs have the resources, the roster core, and the divisional landscape to justify bold action. The time to strike is now.
Securing Kyle Tucker might have been a game-changer for the Chicago Cubs, showing fans and rivals that they mean business as a big market team looking to dominate and prioritize winning over profits. But it’s time for the team to show they’re serious about reclaiming their championship status by making moves and seizing this opportunity to prove their dedication to success.