Cubs, Kyle Tucker agree to $16.5 million salary to avoid arbitration

Houston Astros’ Kyle Tucker (30) celebrates after hitting a game-winning two-run single against the Chicago Cubs during the ninth inning of a baseball game Wednesday, May 17, 2023, in Houston. The Astros won 7-6.David J. Phillip/AP Photos

The Cubs and new star Kyle Tucker will avoid going to an arbitration hearing, agreeing to a $16.5 million salary for 2025.

The two sides did not reach an agreement by the deadline to exchange figures last week, but they were able to find a middle ground. The Cubs had filed at $15 million and Tucker’s camp at $17.5 million.

Tucker, who the Cubs acquired from the Astros in a trade last month, is in his last year of club control and can become a free agent after…