The Chicago Cubs made a major trade during the offseason to acquire Kyle Tucker for Chicago. However, Tucker will become a free agent after the season and is likely to receive numerous lucrative offers.

Tucker, 28, is a three-time All-Star, Gold Glove Award winner, and Silver Slugger recipient. He has hit 125 home runs since the start of 2021 and has played a key role in the Cubs' success this season. However, it may be challenging for the Cubs to extend his contract, as he and his representatives are aware of the offers he might get on the open market.

Tucker is projected to secure a 12-year, $525 million deal in free agency. If a bidding war ensues, that figure could rise to $600 million. FanSided's Rich Eberwein has suggested that the Cubs might pursue Marcell Ozuna from the Atlanta Braves if Tucker leaves Chicago in free agency.

Ozuna is in his eighth season in the majors. He is a three-time All-Star and two-time Silver Slugger. He won a Gold Glove in 2022, though he offers little defensively now. He is currently playing on a $16 million club option this season.

He will enter free agency at the end of the year, and Spotrac projects him to sign a four-year, $77 million contract. He could serve as an everyday designated hitter for Craig Counsell and help replace some of the offensive production the Cubs would lose if Tucker departs.

Ozuna is batting .253/.381/.418 this season with 11 home runs. All 70 of his appearances have been as a designated hitter. He would be considerably more affordable than Tucker, allowing the Cubs to allocate resources elsewhere, potentially for an outfielder.