UPDATE: Chicago Cubs right fielder Kyle Tucker has traveled to Florida for urgent treatment on his injured left calf, coinciding with the Cubs clinching their first playoff berth since 2020. This critical move comes as Tucker has hit a plateau in his recovery from a calf strain that has sidelined him since September 2.
The Cubs’ manager, Craig Counsell, confirmed that a member of the Cubs medical staff is accompanying Tucker to Florida to receive specialized treatment from a team that successfully aided him in overcoming a similar injury during his tenure with the Houston Astros.
“We’re aligned with Kyle, and this is the best way for him to make some improvements,” Counsell stated. “Unfortunately, we’ve plateaued and we weren’t making progress. That’s frustrating for Kyle. We’re hoping for the same success and hoping to get him back on the field.”
Tucker, who was acquired from Houston in December and signed a $16.5 million one-year contract, is having a solid season with a batting average of .270, including 22 home runs and 73 RBIs over 133 games.
As the Cubs prepare for a crucial four-game series against Cincinnati starting Thursday, the urgency surrounding Tucker’s recovery has intensified. Counsell emphasized the importance of Tucker participating in regular-season games before the playoffs commence. “It’s important that he plays in regular-season games [before the playoffs],” Counsell added. “That’s why you’re kind of willing to go to this extra step here to try something.”
Tucker is expected to rejoin the Cubs in Chicago next week for a six-game homestand that will wrap up the regular season. The clock is ticking as the team hopes for his return to bolster their playoff chances.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops. The Cubs are looking to make a deep playoff run, and Tucker’s availability could be a game-changer.
