Reds receive unmistakable wake-up call as Cubs-Kyle Tucker contract rumors emerge

Arguably the biggest trade of the MLB offseason came shortly after the Winter Meetings when the Houston Astros dealt three-time All-Star Kyle Tucker to the Chicago Cubs. Knowing that they'd be unable to afford Tucker's steep contract demands next winter, the Astros opted to maximize their return and received a return Isaac Paredes, Hayden Wesneski, and top prospect Cam Smith in exchange for one of the best hitters in the game.

Tucker has done nothing but rake since arriving on the North Side. The 28-year-old is hitting .322/.452/.678 through the first two weeks of the season, and took home NL Player of the Week honors earlier this season. The Cincinnati Reds have yet to face the new-look Cubs this season, but will get their chance during an upcoming three-game series next month.

By then, however, Tucker's bank account might include a few more zeroes. MLB insider Mike Rodriguez is reporting that the Cubs and Tucker are discussing a potential contract extension. The former Silver Slugger has been dismissive of such talks to this point, but if Chicago's offer meets his expectations, there's no reason to assume that a deal can't be reached.

Reds receive unmistakable wake-up call as Cubs-Kyle Tucker contract rumors emerge

The idea that Chicago is contemplating shelling out what's likely to be at least a $400-million deal should serve as a wake-up call for Nick Krall and the entire Reds front office. The Cubs are not messing around, and are willing to spend big-time money in order to secure a seat at the table for years to come.

To date, that's something the Reds have been unwilling to do. Cincinnati failed to get a contract extension done with Tyler Stephenson this past offseason, Matt McLain rejected their attempt to work out a long-term extension, and Elly De La Cruz's future contract gets bigger by the second. Yet the Reds continue to drag their feet, and outside of Hunter Greene and Jose Trevino, have no players under contract beyond 2026.

Reds fans just want a glimmer of hope at this point. They want to see an effort from the front office and ownership that shows a commitment to winning over the long haul. Hiring Terry Francona was a good start, but the Cincinnati faithful want to know that Krall and Co. are willing to stick their neck out, spend some money, and keep their homegrown talent around for the next decade.

The Cubs have a perennial MVP candidate in Tucker, a top-tier manager in Craig Counsell, a Cy Young candidate in Shōta Imanaga, and a good, young core. That sounds a lot like the Reds. The biggest difference, however, is Chicago's willingness to go the extra mile to keep that group intact.

Reds fans want to see the same type of dedication. Hopefully the Tucker contract rumors will light a fire under the Reds' front office and ownership, but history would suggest otherwise.

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