Cubs Rumors: Chicago Balks at $400M Kyle Tucker, Eyes $182M Alex Bregman as “World Series” Upgrade.vc
After a 92-win season and an NLDS exit, the Cubs are reportedly looking to pivot from retaining Kyle Tucker, targeting Alex Bregman as a “financially feasible” cornerstone.
CHICAGO — The Chicago Cubs are coming off a successful 92-70 season, but their 2025 campaign ended in disappointment after being knocked out by the division-rival Milwaukee Brewers in a thrilling five-game NLDS.
As management looks ahead to the 2026 MLB season, the goal is clear: bolster the roster for a deeper postseason run. To do that, the Cubs must make bold moves, and one of the most talked-about strategies involves a high-stakes pivot: letting outfielder Kyle Tucker walk in favor of pursuing Boston Red Sox third baseman Alex Bregman.
The $400M Tucker vs. $182M Bregman Decision
The Cubs face a massive financial decision regarding their own free agent, Kyle Tucker. According to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, Tucker is expected to command an “astronomical” contract worth over $400 million. Bowden reports the Cubs are “unlikely to invest such a massive amount in him.”
Instead, Chicago is reportedly eyeing Alex Bregman as a “more financially feasible, but still highly impactful” replacement.
Bregman, who is expected to command a deal in the range of $182 million over six years, is seen as the missing piece to elevate the roster. The Cubs were reportedly interested in Bregman last offseason but missed their opportunity.
“Alex Bregman isn’t just a replacement for Tucker; he’s the upgrade that could turn the Cubs into true World Series contenders,” Bowden wrote. “With a $182 million price tag, it’s now or never for Chicago to make their move.”
In 2025, Bregman played in 131 games for the Red Sox, hitting .273/.360/.462 with 18 home runs and 62 RBIs. Like Tucker, Bregman dealt with injuries that impacted his final numbers, but his potential as a solid top-of-the-order hitter and clubhouse leader remains undeniable.
Why the Unconventional Swap Makes Sense
Replacing a star right fielder with a star third baseman may seem unconventional, but it makes strategic sense for the Cubs’ current roster.
Chicago’s outfield is already a position of strength, featuring Ian Happ, Seiya Suzuki, and 2025 All-Star Pete Crow-Armstrong. By letting Tucker sign elsewhere, the Cubs can allocate their resources to the infield. Adding Bregman’s bat to the hot corner would provide a significant offensive boost and deepen the lineup.
The move is not without risk. Bregman will be highly sought after on the open market, and the Cubs will face stiff competition, including from the Red Sox, who are “likely to push hard to retain him.”
The Pressure is On: A World Series Window
The Cubs’ window to win is now. With a solid core in place, the 2026 season presents a prime opportunity for a deep postseason run. Securing Bregman could be the catalyst that turns Chicago from a good playoff team into a legitimate World Series contender.
The pressure is on the Cubs’ front office to make this bold offseason move count and outbid their rivals for one of the market’s top prizes.
