URGENT UPDATE: Chicago Cubs right fielder Kyle Tucker will be benched for multiple days following a dismal performance in Game 1 of a doubleheader against the Milwaukee Brewers. Manager Craig Counsell delivered the announcement after the Cubs’ 7-0 loss on August 14, 2023, marking a crucial moment as the team seeks to rejuvenate Tucker’s struggling performance.
Tucker, age 28, has faced significant challenges this month, managing a mere .160 batting average with zero extra-base hits. His recent outing culminated in an 0 for 4 showing, leading to boos from frustrated fans during his final three at-bats, which included two weak groundouts and a pop-up to left field. “The fans are frustrated and Kyle is frustrated,” Counsell stated. “When you make outs, it doesn’t look good. He’s trying. It’s just not clicking.”
The decision to give Tucker time off comes as he has not hit a home run since July 19 and has only four extra-base hits since July 1. “He’s frustrated and we’re not coming up with solutions for him,” Counsell added. “Sometimes you have to take some steps back to go forward again.”
Despite his overall batting average of .261 and an OPS of .821, Tucker’s ground ball rate has surged to 53.7% in August, ranking him 17th highest among qualified hitters, according to ESPN Research. Before August, he ranked ninth lowest in ground ball rate, indicating a troubling shift in his hitting mechanics.
Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer emphasized the need for a reset, stating, “He’s too good a player for it not to click. He’s going to get hot again.” Hoyer noted that Tucker’s swing mechanics have changed over time, contributing to his recent struggles. “The ball is not in the air. The exit velos aren’t high,” he explained.
Tucker had previously jammed his right ring finger in early June, a potential factor in his current difficulties, though he has dismissed it as a concern. As the Cubs navigate this challenging period, Tucker will focus on finding solutions behind the scenes while taking time to mentally reset.
In related news, Cubs starter Cade Horton exited Game 1 in the third inning due to a blister issue but reassured fans that he expects to make his next start. “It’s nothing crazy,” Horton said, providing a small glimmer of hope for the team’s pitching lineup.
As fans eagerly await Tucker’s return, the Cubs’ management remains optimistic that this break will lead to a swift turnaround, potentially reigniting the veteran’s previous success. Stay tuned for updates on Tucker’s progress and the Cubs’ upcoming games.
