The Cubs kicked off their 2025 season with a splash by signing Kyle Tucker. Despite missing some time due to injuries and hitting .266, Tucker still made a big impact. Thus, helping lead Chicago to its first playoff appearance in five years. However, their run ended in the NLDS at the hands of their division rivals, the Brewers.
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Now, things could get even tougher for the Cubs. If you remember, Tucker was the one the Cubs went all-in on last offseason. But this offseason, he is about to hit free agency. So, after that playoff loss, there’s growing concern the Cubs might lose him, too. While there’s been no official word from Tucker yet, his latest Instagram post has fans wondering if he just dropped a farewell message.
“Thank you, Chicago, for riding with us all year long! Y’all’s support was there no matter what, and we couldn’t have done it without you,” the latest Instagram post of Tucker reads.
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Well, the message Tucker shared is common among teams eliminated from the league. But as Tucker is long-rumored to be hitting free agency after 2025, fans are quick enough to identify the hidden truths, if any!
Undoubtedly, Tucker has been one of the league’s most reliable hitters throughout his eight-year career. He’s never posted an OPS below .800 in a full season and, at just 28, still has plenty of prime years left.
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But what’s less certain is whether he’ll land the massive deal many expected earlier in the year. Kyle Tucker is projected to garner a contract worth nearly $400 million, according to Spotrac.
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The big question is: will Tucker’s 2026 free agency still bring that rumored $400 million payday after an up-and-down finish to 2025? Notably, his final stretch — five homers and 21 RBIs over 53 games wasn’t quite up to his usual standard and might ding his value a bit. Still, Tucker will enter the market as one of the most sought-after players available.
And with that in mind, Cubs fans are bracing for the worst. And his recent social media post seems to have only fueled the belief that he’s saying goodbye.
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Cubs’ fans are manifesting Kyle Tucker
While the Cubs’ front office is still skeptical about whether they would bid for $400 million to get Tucker back, the fans are in no mood to let their veteran slugger out. “Is This the Farewell?” one fan remarked. “Same time next year??” another added. Surely this sounds like fans are desperate to keep Tucker in Chicago, and why not? Just before his injury this year, Tucker slashed .291/.395/.537 with 17 HRs, offering a glimpse of his capability.
“Hope you decide to come back & finish the job! WRIGLEY FIELD & CUBS FANS,” Another user added sharing how Tucker left with unfinished business back in Chicago. Cubs fans are hoping Tucker couldn’t complete his job this year due to injury, which could be completed if he’s back for the next season. However, his social media post indicates otherwise. Few fans actually understand. “Let me translate: I love the fans and the team, but I will not be resigning with you.”
Tucker’s camp will likely explore the open market, and teams like the Dodgers, Phillies, and Yankees have deeper pockets. So, if either of them comes close to that rumored $400 million range, or even offers better contract structure or incentives, it’ll be hard for the Cubs to match.
“Come back to H-Town if they give you the right amount of money. It’s clear you hit well in Minute Maid, and we love you over here. I hope Dana gives you the contract you deserve.” Tucker leaving the Cubs would be the best opportunity for the Astros to get their lost cornerstone back again. Last year, the Astros confirmed that they would not be able to meet the expected price tag of Tucker. Hence, this year, with the amount skyrocketing, the Astros are unlikely to go for him.
But again, when the name is Kyle Tucker, not only the Cubs, but the fans of other teams are also manifesting to get him.