Chicago Cubs right fielder Kyle Tucker has faced significant challenges at the plate this season, leading to several days off to reset his performance. Following a diagnosis of a hairline fracture in his right hand, confirmed by manager Craig Counsell, Tucker's injury has now fully healed. Counsell provided this update after the Cubs secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers.
Initially diagnosed in June, the injury was a result of a slide into second base against the Cincinnati Reds on June 1. Initial X-rays indicated a jammed finger, but further imaging revealed a slight fracture near the junction of the pinkie and ring finger. Although Tucker experienced soreness, he managed to maintain an impressive 0.982 OPS throughout June, opting against a stint on the injured list to continue contributing to the Cubs, who were then in first place.
Despite his determination to play through the pain, Tucker's performance has significantly declined since July. His batting average has dropped to .189, with only four extra-base hits recorded in recent months. Alarmingly, his ground ball rate has surged to an astonishing 54% this month alone. After an 0-for-4 outing on Monday, Counsell decided it was time for Tucker to take a few days off, although he is expected to return to the lineup during the upcoming West Coast trip.
Brewers manager Pat Murphy also weighed in on Tucker's situation, suggesting during an appearance on the Cubs' flagship radio station that the right fielder's performance has been affected by his injury. "I think Tucker's hurt. I don't have any information, but Tucker's not the same," he stated, highlighting the visible impact of the hand injury.
Throughout this challenging period, Tucker has been steadfast in refusing to use the injury as an excuse. "I'm fine," he asserted recently. "I've played, for the most part, every game this year. I'm fine going out there." His initial performance this season was remarkable, boasting an OPS of .931 and stealing 20 bases within the first three months. His efforts earned him a selection to the All-Star Game, marking the first time he started in the prestigious event during his eight-year career.
Hand injuries can be particularly troublesome for athletes, often leading to lingering effects that impact swing mechanics and overall performance. Tucker's former teammate in Houston, Yordan Alvarez, has been sidelined since early May due to a similar injury. While Tucker has been largely healthy throughout his career, he did miss time last season due to a shin fracture. With the season winding down and free agency on the horizon, the Cubs are optimistic that this break will enable Tucker to regain his form for the crucial stretch run ahead.
As Counsell remarked, "At the start of this for me, it was going to be two days off. We'll go from there." The organization is hopeful that this strategic rest will rejuvenate Tucker and help him return to the consistent performance that fans and teammates have come to expect.
