The Chicago Cubs are off to a solid start, holding a 9-6 record and sitting one game ahead of the Milwaukee Brewers in the NL Central. While there are still 147 games left in the season, the excitement within the clubhouse and among fans is undeniable. Something about this Cubs team just feels different.
That “something,” of course, is Kyle Tucker. After much anticipation, Jed Hoyer made a bold move during the offseason, trading Cam Smith and Isaac Paredes to the Houston Astros for the 28-year-old World Series champion, who’s in the final year of his contract. The Astros, unwilling to pay Tucker, left the door open for the Cubs to make a big acquisition — one that is paying off early.
Tucker, a proven slugger, has been even better than expected. The three-time All-Star is currently leading all of MLB with 19 hits. With five home runs, 16 RBIs, and three stolen bases, he’s batting .339 with a remarkable 1.178 OPS. While these numbers may eventually regress, Tucker’s ability to produce offensively is undeniable. He dealt with injuries in the past but still hit 23 home runs in just 78 games last season. When healthy, he’s one of the league’s most dangerous hitters, and the Cubs’ offense desperately needed this type of boost.
But Tucker is more than just a powerful bat; he’s quickly becoming a leader in the Cubs’ clubhouse. Despite his early success, Tucker is quick to give credit to his teammates, emphasizing that baseball is a team effort. “I don’t win games by myself,” Tucker said. “Everyone in here plays their part, whether it’s getting one out, drawing a walk, or helping with the scouting reports. It’s not a one-man sport by any means.”
This new energy around the Cubs is palpable. After two straight seasons of 83 wins, Chicago now feels like a team that could make a serious push in the National League. While Tucker’s impending free agency casts a shadow, the focus for now remains on the present, with Tucker’s leadership and contributions playing a significant role. The Cubs’ success is also thanks to key performances from players like Dansby Swanson (four home runs, .809 OPS) and Seiya Suzuki (four home runs, .933 OPS), all of which is crucial as the Cubs navigate a fragile pitching staff. The Cubs are back, and with Tucker setting the tone, their future looks brighter than ever.
