Chicago Cubs right fielder Kyle Tucker (30) reacts as he rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the New York Mets during the fourth inning at Citi Field.

"Kyle Tucker is a player you want to have for a long time," Hoyer said. "He's been one of the best players in baseball this year."

The Cubs didn't seem likely to hang onto Kyle Tucker after trading for him. But they are positioned to pay him $50 million per season if they consider him essential.