With the Chicago Cubs' season having come to an end, the questions about Kyle Tucker's future can start.
One of the most coveted players on the market entering free agency, the outfielder said after Saturday's loss in Game 5 of the National League Division Series to the Milwaukee Brewers that he isn't sure what's next.
«We'll see what happens,» said Tucker, who could command a contract in the $400 million range in free agency after agreeing to a $16.5 million deal to avoid arbitration this season. «I don't know what the future is going to hold. If not, it was an honor playing with all these guys and I wish everyone the best of luck, whether it's playing next year or not with them. It's a really fun group to be a part of.»
The addition of Tucker, who was acquired via trade from the Houston Astros prior to this season, buoyed the Cubs' hopes of a deep postseason run. And when Tucker was healthy and rolling early in the season, he was a viable MVP candidate and a catalyst in a dynamic, varied offense.
However, Tucker, who turns 29 in January, suffered a fractured right hand in June and a calf strain in September as the Brewers won the NL Central by five games over the Cubs, who landed the top wild-card spot at 92-70.
After returning from the hand injury, Tucker struggled at the plate, hitting .218 in July and .244 in August.
Still, he slashed .266/.377/.464 for the season with 22 home runs, 73 RBIs and 25 steals in 136 games while earning an All-Star nod for the Cubs. He returned in time for the playoffs and was 7-for-27 with one home run and one RBI.
«He meant a lot,» first baseman Michael Busch told reporters. «The consistency of at-bat, getting on base and driving [in runs]. He's just as complete of a hitter as you can
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