The Chicago Cubs have been active in trades, acquiring star outfielder Kyle Tucker while sending Cody Bellinger to the New York Yankees. This move, viewed as a salary dump, raises questions about the Cubs' strategy moving forward.

Despite the addition of Tucker, the Cubs' lineup lacks the potential impact of having both Tucker and Bellinger. General Manager Jed Hoyer may need to make further moves to strengthen the team, possibly targeting big-name players like Corbin Burnes or Alex Bregman.

With the Cubs aiming for a competitive 2025 season, the organization must demonstrate a commitment to improvement and capitalize on their recent trade activity.

The Minnesota Twins are in negotiations to re-sign first baseman Carlos Santana, adding competition for the Seattle Mariners this offseason. The New York Yankees have also shown interest in Santana while exploring the first-base market, engaging with other free agents like Pete Alonso and Paul Goldschmidt.

At 38, Santana just completed his 15th MLB season, earning his first Gold Glove. He hit .238 with 23 home runs and 71 RBIs, contributing significantly to the Mariners' playoff run in 2022.

The Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros have executed a significant trade, sending All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker to Chicago in exchange for third baseman Isaac Paredes, among others. This move is seen as a strategic effort by the Cubs to rebound from a disappointing season.

Tucker, a top performer in OPS+ and Wins Above Replacement, is expected to be a key asset for the Cubs. Meanwhile, the Astros are making a shift towards younger talent, indicating potential changes in their roster dynamics.

The Chicago Cubs have made a significant move by acquiring All-Star right fielder Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. This trade involves the Cubs sending three players back to Houston: infielder Isaac Paredes, pitcher Hayden Wesneski, and third-base prospect Cam Smith.

Tucker, who has been with the Astros since 2018, boasts an impressive resume including a World Series title and multiple All-Star selections. Despite a shin injury this season, he maintained strong performance metrics.

In return, the Astros gain Paredes, a versatile infielder, along with Wesneski and Smith, who was a first-round draft pick in 2024. This trade could also trigger further moves, with the New York Yankees potentially eyeing deals involving Cubs outfielder Cody Bellinger and former Astro Alex Bregman.

The Chicago Cubs have made a significant offseason move by acquiring superstar slugger Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. This trade, reported by ESPN's Jeff Passan, comes as Tucker's contract is nearing its end, prompting the Astros to consider trading him.

In exchange, the Cubs are sending Isaac Paredes, a 2024 first-round pick, Cam Smith, and pitcher Hayden Wesneski to Houston. Tucker, despite missing part of last season due to injury, showcased impressive stats, making him a vital addition to the Cubs' lineup.

With Tucker expected to take over right field, the Cubs face pressure to trade Cody Bellinger and secure a contract extension for Tucker before he hits free agency next year.