Cam Smith Makes Astros’ Opening Day Roster in Raw Emotional Moment (Video)
In a blockbuster move last December, the Chicago Cubs landed Kyle Tucker, a premier offensive force, in exchange for Isaac Paredes, Hayden Wesneski, and prospect Cam Smith. Tucker’s track record speaks for itself, boasting a 19.0 WAR since 2021, placing him 14th in all of baseball.
At the time, the trade felt like a home run. The Cubs desperately needed a left-handed power bat to inject life into their lineup. However, a crucial question lingers. Can the Cubs secure Tucker beyond his current contract, which expires at the end of this season? Failure to do so risks turning this potential triumph into a big loss.
Adding fuel to the fire, Cam Smith, the Cubs’ 2024 first-round pick, has exploded onto the scene this spring. His scorching .342/.419/.711 slash line, coupled with four home runs and 11 RBIs, earned him a coveted spot on the Houston Astros’ Opening Day roster.
BREAKING: Cam Smith has been informed he’s made the #Astros Opening Day Roster.
Cam will make his MLB debut Thursday at Daikin Park. pic.twitter.com/p72WMPH1ya
— Ari Alexander (@AriA1exander) March 25, 2025
The call up. #BuiltForThis pic.twitter.com/5d1HxEFk0l
— Houston Astros (@astros) March 25, 2025
While Smith’s success is undoubtedly exciting for him, it casts a shadow of doubt over the Cubs’ trade. The pressure is on the Cubs front office to lock down Tucker long-term.
Of course, it’s still far too early to declare a definitive winner or loser in this deal. If Tucker delivers an MVP-caliber season in Chicago, we’ll all be celebrating. But for now, let’s just hope he avoids a dreaded 0-for-4 performance against the Diamondbacks on Thursday.
