Harper’s near‑Cubs move and Tucker’s Wrigley debut fuel new free‑agency debate
Bryce Harper revealed the Cubs were his top free‑agency choice in 2019, while Kyle Tucker’s strong start at Wrigley Field has Chicago pondering another costly free‑agency decision.
Key points
- Harper said the Cubs were his No. 1 team in 2019 free agency but no talks occurred.
- Kyle Tucker, acquired from Houston in a December trade, is excelling at Wrigley Field.
- The Cubs lead the NL Central as Tucker’s performance raises questions about his future contract.
- Harper’s 13‑year, $330 million deal with the Phillies is cited as a benchmark for Tucker’s potential $400 million+ contract.
Bryce Harper’s revelation about nearly choosing the Chicago Cubs in free agency has resurfaced as Kyle Tucker’s arrival at Wrigley Field sparks déjà vu. Harper told The Athletic this weekend that the Cubs were his “No. 1 team” during his 2019 free agency but never engaged in talks, leaving fans to wonder how different the last six years might have been
Now, Tucker-acquired from Houston in a high-stakes December trade-faces similar questions about his future. The Cubs sit atop the NL Central, fueled by Tucker’s MVP-caliber play, but his looming free agency could trigger another franchise crossroads. Harper’s 13-year, $330M Phillies deal set a benchmark; Tucker, 2, may command $400M+ this winter
“He’s one of my favorites in the league,” Harper said of Tucker during the Cubs-Phillies series. “A player you want in high-pressure situations” The parallels are unavoidable: Chicago once passed on a generational lefty slugger and now must decide whether to pay another.
As Tucker thrives under Wrigley’s ivy-covered walls, the shadow of Harper’s near-miss lingers-a reminder that even midseason success can’t quiet the “what-ifs” of baseball’s financial realities.
Your questions, answered
What did Bryce Harper say about the Cubs in 2019?
He said the Cubs were his No. 1 team during the 2019 free‑agency period but no negotiations took place.
How is Kyle Tucker performing for the Cubs?
Tucker, acquired from Houston, is delivering MVP‑caliber play at Wrigley Field and helping the Cubs sit atop the NL Central.
What contract could Tucker command in free agency?
Analysts suggest Tucker could seek a contract exceeding $400 million this winter.
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