URGENT UPDATE: The Chicago Cubs are benching right fielder Kyle Tucker for multiple days following his disappointing performance in Game 1 of a doubleheader against the Milwaukee Brewers on August 28, 2023. In a game marked by struggles, Tucker went 0 for 4, contributing to the Cubs’ 7-0 defeat.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell confirmed the decision after the game, stating that Tucker, who has faced significant difficulties this month with a dismal .160 batting average and no extra-base hits, needs time to reset. The player was met with boos from the crowd 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 said. “When you make outs, it doesn’t look good. He’s trying. It’s just not clicking.” This decision comes after Tucker has not hit a home run since July 19 and has only four extra-base hits since July 1.
Counsell emphasized the importance of taking a step back. “Sometimes you have to take some steps back to go forward again,” he explained. Tucker, who could not comment due to player availability rules during doubleheaders, is likely to continue working behind the scenes to find solutions during his time off.
Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer acknowledged the mechanical issues affecting Tucker’s swing, stating, “If you look at his swing early in the year, as opposed to now, it’s less connected, therefore less powerful.” Hoyer expressed confidence in Tucker’s abilities, stating, “He’s too good a player for it not to click,” and is hopeful for a resurgence similar to his strong performance earlier this season.
Tucker’s struggles this month have raised concerns among fans and team officials alike. His ground ball rate has surged to 53.7%, ranking him as the 17th highest among qualified hitters, according to ESPN Research. This is a stark contrast to his earlier season performance, where he ranked ninth lowest in ground ball rate.
In another development during the game, Cubs starter Cade Horton exited in the third inning due to a blister issue but assured fans he would likely make his next start. “It’s nothing crazy,” Horton said.
As Tucker takes a much-needed break to recalibrate, all eyes will be on his return to form and whether he can rediscover his hitting prowess. The Cubs will be watching closely as they navigate the remainder of the season with mounting pressure to perform.