CHICAGO — During the Chicago Cubs’ 7-3 win over the Cincinnati Reds to close out the weekend series, outfielder Kyle Tucker exited the game due to a jammed right ring finger. The injury occurred on an awkward slide, and Tucker was replaced by Vidal Bruján in right field in the fifth inning. The Cubs have Monday off, which Tucker hopes will aid his recovery ahead of the team’s upcoming road trip.
Details of Tucker’s Injury and Immediate Reaction
Tucker described his hand as
“a little jammed, or a little swollen,”
but remains hopeful the rest day will help improve the condition before their next game in Washington. In addition to the finger injury, Tucker sustained a cut on his nose after being caught stealing second base for the first time this season in 17 attempts. He speculated that his helmet might have struck his nose during the play, while his hand became caught underneath him, leading to the discomfort.
“Hand’s a little jammed, or a little swollen. Obviously we got our off day tomorrow so hopefully it feels a little bit better when we get to Washington.” —Kyle Tucker, Outfielder
“It kind of felt weird. Was just hoping that it went away, ”
“Try to kind of just grind through and grind through the at-bats and stuff. But it was kind of hurting. Just kind of took a precautionary route of just coming out of the game.” —Kyle Tucker, Outfielder
Performance Before Leaving the Game
Before exiting, the 28-year-old Tucker hit a ground-rule double in the third inning and scored on Pete Crow-Armstrong’s two-out single to right field. He then fouled out to the catcher in the fourth inning. The Cubs’ decision to remove him was precautionary to avoid worsening the injury as they held the lead, especially with the day off ahead.
Medical Assessment and Team’s Outlook on Recovery
Tucker underwent X-rays shortly after and was cleared of any serious damage. Cubs manager Craig Counsell expressed optimism about Tucker’s recovery, describing the injury as a sprained finger expected to sideline him for only a day or two. Counsell noted that Tucker participated in his second at-bat despite discomfort, but with the team leading, they chose to pull him out to avoid further risk.
“I’m optimistic this is going to be at most a day or two,”
“It’s just a sprained finger. … He took the second at-bat and just was a little uncomfortable. So with the lead, just got him out of there.” —Craig Counsell, Cubs Manager
Tucker’s Importance to the Cubs and Upcoming Schedule
Acquired in a trade from Houston last December, Tucker has been a vital player for the Cubs during his first season with the team. The three-time All-Star currently boasts a 16-game on-base streak dating back to mid-May. Through 59 games, he is batting .284 with 12 home runs, 39 RBIs, and 16 stolen bases, having appeared in every contest so far.
“He’s gone out there a bunch. He’s been out there every day,”
“and he’s shown no signs of any fatigue.” —Craig Counsell, Cubs Manager
The Cubs are set to start a nine-game road trip on Tuesday night against the Washington Nationals, making Tucker’s quick recovery crucial for their continued push in the NL Central.