As the Cubs get ready to kick off the season in Japan, the buzz is building around their newest guy Kyle Tucker. Traded from the Houston Astros, Tucker is supposed to bring the power the Cubs have been missing for years. According to Andrew Simon of MLB.com, Tucker is projected to hit 31 homers in 2025, which would end the Cubs’ 5 year drought of not having a 30 homer guy.
Why Kyle Tucker is the Cubs’ Missing Piece
The Cubs have been looking for a power hitter since Kris Bryant hit 30 in 2019. Last year Ian Happ led the team with 25 homers, so clearly they need a real slugger. Tucker, a former Astros star, is that guy.
At 28 years old, Tucker is in his prime and has already shown he can bring power and consistency. Over the last 4 years he’s been a mainstay in the Astros lineup, hitting 30 homers twice and 29 in 2023. Even in an injury shortened 2024 season he hit .289/ .408/ .585 with 23 homers and 39 RBI in 78 games.
What Makes Kyle Tucker Special?
Tucker isn’t a home run hitter—he’s a threat. Over the last 4 seasons he’s been the epitome of consistency in the middle of the Astros’ order. Even with only 78 games in 2024, he put up some nice numbers:
- Batting Average: .289
- On-Base Percentage: .408
- Slugging Percentage: .585
- Home Runs: 23
- RBIs: 39
If he had played a full season his home run total could have easily been 40. He generates power while getting on base, that’s a perfect fit for the Cubs.
Andrew Simon of MLB.com has Tucker projected to hit 31 home runs in 2025. That seems about right but he could do more. In the first half of 2024 he showed signs of unlocking a new level of power in his swing.
Can Tucker End the Cubs’ Home Run Drought?
The Cubs haven’t had a player hit 30 or more home runs since 2019 when Kris Bryant did it. With Tucker now on board that streak should end. At 28 years old he’s just entering his prime and his left handed bat should thrive at Wrigley Field which is hitter friendly.
As long as Tucker stays healthy he has the tools to not only lead the Cubs in home runs but be one of the most feared hitters in the National League.