The Cubs entered the offseason hoping for quiet recovery updates. Instead, the team has been hit with two twists. As the Cubs analyze their upcoming roster, reports highlight that a powerful reunion with Kyle Tucker could have ripple effects across the team, specifically for one bright and promising outfielder fighting to secure his position in the majors.

That prospect is Kevin Alcántara. He has drawn intense buzz around Wrigleyville. The star spent much of 2025 in Triple-A Iowa before getting his first big-league taste in September, where he finished with an elite .364 average in 10 games. However, his way ahead is uncertain.

Marquee Sports Network’s Andy Martinez wrote, “Alcántara is an interesting player for the Cubs next year. This season was his last option year, meaning he can’t be sent down to the minor leagues next season without being exposed to waivers. The Cubs could carry him on their bench as an extra outfielder or designated hitting option, but if the team brings back slugger Kyle Tucker, that makes it a difficult path to regular playing time for Alcántara.”

Adding to the situation, WatchMarquee posted on Instagram confirming that the star underwent core muscle surgery, and it has put Alcántara’s offseason approach temporarily on hold.

Sources confirmed that the surgery was successful and that the Cubs star is projected to have a “mostly normal offseason”. It is also expected that Alcántara will be prepared for spring training.

Still, the timing of the procedure adds another wrinkle for the Cubs’ management, which is already juggling multiple vital offseason decisions.

Meanwhile, Cubs president Jed Hoyer did not give any direct updates on the prospect’s surgery during his end-of-season press conference. But he hinted that multiple stars could undergo minor offseason procedures.

“We have a medical meeting today,” Hoyer mentioned. “There may well be some surgeries that come out of it, or recommended surgeries or second opinions,” he added. The statement, though routine, added to the uncertainty related to Alcántara’s immediate readiness.

As Kevin Alcántara’s uncertain position in the Cubs is making headlines, the attention has now fallen to the star whose decision could shape the team’s offseason and Ticker also sent a heartfelt message to the Cubs ahead of free agency.

Kyle Tucker’s message to the Cubs before free agency

After just one season with the Cubs, Tucker has left the team and the fans guessing related to his next approach. The star slugger joined the Cubs in a blockbuster trade deal with the Astros last season. He has played a vital role in supporting the Cubs and helped the team return to the postseason for the first time since 2020. However, as he is going to enter the free market, his current Instagram post just deepened the intrigue.

“Thank you, Chicago, for riding with us all year long! Y’all’s support was there no matter what and we couldn’t have done it without you. #FlyTheW 🐻,” the star wrote. Tucker’s statement, while appreciative, was filled with a subtle tone of finality and one that many interpreted as a possible farewell. He, who posted a .266 average, .377 OBP, .841 OPS with 22 home runs, 73 RBIs, and 25 steals in 136 games, will be the most sought-after free agent this winter.

All such data made Tucker a prized asset. Tucker has never recorded an OPS less than .800 in a full season and Tucker’s mix of speed, defense and power, backed by his four All-Star appearances, a Silver Slugger award and a Gold Glove, cements Tucker as an elite talent. The Cubs know it and the management has highlighted their interest in retaining the star however, with multiple other big-market teams expected to make a deal with him, the cost to retain him with the Cubs could cross their comfort zone.

As Ticket is getting prepared for the free market, the Cubs are at a crossroads. They are now choosing between their problem star power and long-term development. Tucker’s goodbye-style message could have been heartfelt however, for the Cubs, it looked like the calm before a team-shifting storm.