The offseason always brings unexpected moves, and the Houston Astros trading Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs is one of those surprises.
On Friday, Tucker was sent to the Cubs in exchange for Isaac Paredes, Hayden Wesneski, and a 2024 first-round pick named Cam Smith.
Just a few days ago, no one thought Tucker would be traded, but now he’s wearing a Cubs uniform.
Despite being four-time AL West champions, the Astros have seen their dominance wane since their peak years from 2019-22. Their win count has fallen from 106 in 2022 to just 88 in 2024, and they were swept by the Tigers in this year’s Wild Card Series. Trading away their top player before he hits free agency seems like a bold move.
However, this trade isn’t about starting over; it’s about retooling with players like Paredes and Wesneski who can contribute right away. The team still boasts stars like Jose Altuve and Yordan Alvarez to build around. Fans might wonder if this is enough for another title run.
Re-sign or Replace Bregman
Don’t think that bringing in Paredes means Alex Bregman’s time with the Astros is over. While it makes his return less likely due to contract disagreements—Houston offered six years at $156 million while Bregman wants closer to $200 million—the door isn’t completely shut yet. The Astros are also eyeing Nolan Arenado as an alternative option.
Paredes can play both corner infield positions, giving Houston flexibility if they decide not to bring back Bregman or pursue another third baseman.
Add an Outfielder (Maybe Two)
Chas McCormick had been solid until his performance dipped last season when he was even sent down to Triple-A for a bit. With Tucker gone, McCormick stands as Houston’s best outfielder—but that’s not saying much given their current lineup of Jake Meyers and a Dubón/Trammell platoon.
The Astros could look at top free agents like Teoscar Hernández or Anthony Santander but might opt for more budget-friendly options such as Randal Grichuk or Max Kepler instead.
Bring in Another Late-Inning Reliever
Rumors suggest Ryan Pressly has been shopped around despite being owed $14 million next year and having a no-trade clause. Though effective last season, signs of decline are showing as he ages into his late thirties.
Even if Pressly stays put alongside Josh Hader and Bryan Abreu—who both set career highs in appearances—a new reliever could ease their workload significantly given how bullpen-centric baseball has become today.
Re-sign or Replace Verlander
Justin Verlander struggled so much recently that he was left off Houston’s playoff roster altogether! At nearly 42 years old now perhaps it’s time for both sides part ways amicably instead looking elsewhere fill rotation gaps left behind him along others recovering injuries surgery etcetera…
Valdez & Brown form strong duo atop rotation yet depth quickly falls apart without reliable innings-eater stepping up soon enough maybe someone like veteran Charlie Morton?
Trading someone talented as Tucker isn’t easy especially trying improve overall squad simultaneously…but hey anything possible right? What do you think?
