Cubs Open to Blank Check Offer to Keep Kyle Tucker: Report

The Chicago Cubs are going to have a tough time re-signing their superstar outfielder Kyle Tucker.

The offseason trade came with risks, namely Tuckers one-year deal and reluctance to sign a long-term contract before hitting free agency.Tuckers inevitable enormous payday grows pricier every day he continues to play well and rack up great defense.

Plus, the front office has historically struggled to attract and maintain top free agents.

However, a recent development could be a cause for excitement among fans.Here is what David Kaplan had to say on the Cubs REKAP Podcast on Tuckers future in Chicago:Im hearing that the Cubs have wrapped their brain around, doesnt mean hell accept it, wrapped their brain around whatever it costs were paying it and they want to keep Tucker, Kaplan said.Chicago Cubs right fielder Kyle Tucker (30) singles against the Chicago Cubs during the first inning at Wrigley Field.Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn ImagesKaplan echoes an unfamiliar sentiment for this front office, which has proven to be stingier with its payroll than fans would like.Tucker is batting .289 with a .976 OPS and a 175 OPS+ with seven home runs, 25 RBIs, and 21 walks to 18 strikeouts over his first 114 at-bats with Chicago.

He is still only 28 years old and is deserving of a blank check.

Beyond Tuckers performance, his impact on the rest of the lineup is already noticeable.

The Cubs lead the majors in runs scored (172) and are atop the National League in combined OPS (.784).Tucker is not the sole contributor, with guys like Michael Busch, Pete Crow-Armstrong, and Seiya Suzuki also doing well at the plate.

But, having a weapon like Tucker wears on opposing staffs and radiates confidence throughout the dugout.Chicago is in win-now mode with President of Baseball Operations Jed Hoyers contract up after this year, and aggressive moves like sending down top prospect Matt Shaw so early into his rookie campaign.The Cubs simply cannot afford to lose out on Tuckers services.

The team is in first place in the National League Central at 17-12 and has already navigated a challenging schedule.

Tucker is worth the price of admission and could be the face of the franchise for the next decade.Related: Gage Workman Breaks Silence Amid Cubs-White Sox TradeRelated: Cubs' Craig Counsell Provides Ryan Pressly Update.

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