Chicago Cubs shortstop Dansby Swanson has set off shockwaves across the baseball world after issuing a powerful warning about the team’s future without star outfielder Kyle Tucker.
In an interview following the Cubs’ postseason exit, Swanson didn’t mince words when asked about the importance of retaining Tucker for 2026.
“If the Cubs want to win, they need Tucker. That’s obvious,” Swanson said firmly. “Having him in the lineup isn’t just a want — it’s a must.”
The statement immediately sent fans and analysts into debate, as speculation swirls over whether the Cubs will meet Tucker’s massive contract demands this offseason.
Tucker’s Market Value: A Price Too High or Too Late to Ignore?
At 28, Tucker is one of the most sought-after free agents in baseball. His 2025 campaign only strengthened his value — a .266 batting average, .841 OPS, 22 home runs, 73 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases — the kind of balanced production that makes him indispensable for any contender.
Despite his standout numbers, the Cubs front office appears hesitant to commit to the $400 million deal it would likely take to keep him in Chicago long-term. Swanson, however, made it clear he believes such an investment is non-negotiable.
“The depth he brings to our lineup is so obvious — it’s almost a no-brainer,” Swanson explained. “His ability to draw walks, hit into gaps, go over the fence, or just keep pressure on pitchers every at-bat — that’s what wins games in October.”
A Team at a Crossroads
The Cubs’ leadership has spent the last few seasons balancing between building sustainably and chasing star power. But after their NLDS elimination at the hands of the Milwaukee Brewers, voices inside the clubhouse — including Swanson’s — are calling for more urgency.
“He’s someone you can rely on to show up every day, hit the ball professionally, and do the things that help the team win,” Swanson continued. “You can’t teach that kind of consistency.”
For a franchise still chasing its first World Series appearance since 2016, the stakes could not be higher. Losing Tucker to a rival like the Yankees, Dodgers, or Red Sox could set the Cubs back years in their quest to return to championship contention.
Fans Demand Action
Across social media, Cubs fans have echoed Swanson’s sentiment, urging the front office to “Pay Tucker” and treat him as the cornerstone of a championship-caliber roster. The fan base, long known for its patience, seems to have reached a breaking point.
The Cubs’ recent improvements — including their 92-win regular season and deep playoff push — have reignited belief, but many fear that momentum could evaporate without Tucker anchoring the offense.
A Franchise-Defining Decision
As winter meetings approach, all eyes are on President Jed Hoyer and Manager Craig Counsell to see whether they’ll back Swanson’s plea with action.
Swanson’s warning wasn’t just about one player — it was about direction. The Cubs can either commit to contending now or risk watching another core slip away.
“Without Tucker,” one league executive told The Sporting News, “the Cubs risk losing more than a player — they risk losing their identity as contenders.”
The decision may define not just Chicago’s offseason, but the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.
