URGENT UPDATE: Chicago Cubs right fielder Kyle Tucker has been struggling with a serious hand injury that has significantly impacted his performance this season. Sources confirmed to ESPN that Tucker was diagnosed with a hairline fracture in his right hand back in June, leading to a concerning decline in his numbers.
Tucker, 28, chose to play through the pain for the Cubs, who were then in first place. Despite his determination, his performance has plummeted since July 1, where he has hit just .189 with only four extra-base hits. His ground-ball rate has skyrocketed to an alarming 54% this month, prompting Cubs management to give him several days off for a much-needed reset.
The injury occurred on June 1 during a slide into second base against the Cincinnati Reds. Initial X-rays deemed it a jammed finger, but further imaging revealed a slight fracture near the pinkie and ring finger. Although re-imaging mid-June showed signs of healing, the injury has evidently affected Tucker’s mechanics and overall play. “There’s no question that when you look at his numbers, it’s had an impact on him, for sure,” stated Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer.
After going 0-for-4 on Monday, Cubs manager Craig Counsell announced Tucker would rest, with plans to reintegrate him into the lineup during the upcoming west coast trip. This situation is reminiscent of Tucker’s former teammate, Yordan Alvarez, who has been sidelined since May due to a similar hand fracture.
Despite inquiries regarding his injury, Tucker has remained resolute, stating, “I’m fine. I’ve played, for the most part, every game this year. I’m fine going out there.” Earlier this season, Tucker was performing exceptionally well, posting an OPS of .931 and stealing 20 bases in the first three months. He even earned a spot in the All-Star Game, marking his first time starting in the midsummer classic.
As the Cubs navigate the critical stretch of the season, they are hopeful that Tucker’s time off will help him regain his form. “At the start of this for me, it was going to be two days [off],” Counsell said on Wednesday afternoon. The team is counting on a recovery that will see Tucker return to his pre-injury dominance as they aim for postseason contention.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops, and watch for Tucker’s anticipated return to action!
