Why Kyle Tucker trade is so significant for the Cubs

The Chicago Cubs made one of their most significant trades in recent memory, acquiring three-time All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros in exchange for a three-player package headlined by third baseman Isaac Paredes.

The Chicago Cubs made one of their most significant trades in recent memory, acquiring three-time All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros in exchange for a three-player package headlined by third baseman Isaac Paredes.

The Cubs have faced criticism among fans and members of the media for their lack of involvement at the highest end of the free agent market, one that saw superstar Juan Soto sign the largest contract in sports history earlier this month.

Positioned with a wealth of young prospect talent, one of the better starting rotations in baseball and a division that remains completely up-for-grabs, this offseason presents a grand opportunity for the North Siders to take advantage of their assets and scenario to make themselves favorites in the National League Central.

Friday’s trade for Tucker is the first real signal that the Cubs are indeed intending to measurably improve and compete in 2025, though questions about the team’s long-term future and willingness to spend big will only grow louder upon Tucker’s acquisition.

The trade also marks a departure from many Cubs trades of the 2020s that have seen much of the 2016 World Series core, in addition to Yu Darvish, being shipped off in exchange of prospects.

https://www.nbcnews.com/sports/mlb/kyle-tucker-trade-significant-cubs-rcna184210

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