The Chicago Cubs' 2025 season is over, and there's a complete assessment that can be made on the Cubs' decision to trade for Kyle Tucker last December. It was a bold swing for Jed Hoyer, who sent a starting third baseman, one of the team's top prospects, and a young starting pitcher with untapped potential to the Astros for one season of Tucker. Many wanted to instantly grade the trade for the Cubs last December, but given the circumstances, the final grade couldn't have been made until after the season.
First and foremost, we need to say the obvious part out loud: The Cubs had to leave last offseason with an impact bat in their starting lineup.