URGENT UPDATE: Chicago Cubs star right fielder Kyle Tucker has officially been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a persistent left calf issue, as confirmed by manager Craig Counsell earlier today. This decision comes just a day after Tucker was hopeful he could avoid the IL, but the situation deteriorated following a rigorous workout on Monday.
The Cubs’ latest roster move, announced before their game at Truist Park, means Tucker will be sidelined until at least September 16, 2023. The team has recalled Moisés Ballesteros to fill the gap on the roster.
Counsell expressed the urgency of the situation, stating, “It didn’t really get to a point of a lot of effort at all and wasn’t comfortable playing, so we just said we’ve got to give this a little more time.” Tucker’s calf did not respond positively during Monday’s exercises, prompting the team to take precautionary measures.
Tucker had been in remarkable form before the injury, boasting a .400 batting average with a .489 on-base percentage, including four home runs and 11 RBIs across his last 11 games. The timing of this setback is particularly concerning as he is an impending free agent and had shown signs of regaining his top form after a brief reset period.
The right fielder had hoped to play in either Tuesday’s or Wednesday’s matchup but felt increasing discomfort in his calf, stating, “It got a little tighter as we went… Normally, it’d loosen up, but today it kind of didn’t really do that.” This ongoing issue is frustrating for the player, who is eager to contribute to his team’s success.
Counsell indicated that the decision to place Tucker on the IL was made to manage the roster effectively, especially with the expanded rosters in September. He added, “You’re just gathering information from all the sources and trying to make your best guess… We didn’t think the roster was really going to be that affected by it.”
While Tucker is sidelined, he can continue to hit and throw, as the calf only bothers him during running. It is yet to be determined if he will require a rehab assignment to regain his game readiness before rejoining the Cubs.
With only 12 games remaining in the regular season, the Cubs will be watching Tucker’s recovery closely. The team hopes to have him back in action as they aim for a successful finish to the season.
Tucker remarked on the situation, stating, “It kind of sucks… you want to go out there and help the team win.” His determination to return quickly reflects the urgency felt by the team and fans alike as they navigate this critical point in the season.
Stay tuned for more updates on Tucker’s recovery and the Cubs’ performance as they face upcoming challenges without their star player.
