Astros’ Joe Espada releases a truth bomb about Kyle Tucker’s injuries.
The Astros may make changes to Kyle Tucker’s recovery plan.
The Houston Astros are attempting to climb the AL West standings following a poor start to the 2024 MLB season. Houston’s difficulties include several health-related issues. Club manager Joe Espada revealed the truth about outfielder Kyle Tucker’s lower leg injury ahead of Saturday’s Detroit Tigers game.
According to Chandler Rome of The Athletic, Espada stated that if Tucker “doesn’t start running around here the next day or two,” the team will consider a rehab assignment. The update comes a few days after Houston’s team spokeswoman stated that Tucker will not be available for Friday’s Tigers game. However, the consensus was that he was “feeling better.”
Kyle Tucker injured his shin in the bottom third inning of Houston’s 7-4 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals on June 3.
Tucker, facing Cardinals starter Kyle Gibson with a 2-0 count, unleashed a massive swing on a cutter that drifted inside the plate, according to ClutchPoints’ Jedd Pagaduan. Unfortunately for the Astros right fielder, the batted ball ricocheted off his shin, and he instantly writhed on the ground in pain, clutching the injured region. He left the game and has been out ever since.
Tucker had merely a right shin contusion as a result of the incident. With time, he should be back in the Astros lineup. Tucker has had a promising start to the 2024 season. Through 60 games, he has 19 home runs, ranking third in the league. In addition, he has a.979 OPS (fourth), 40 RBI, and a.266 batting average.
Regarding injuries, Joe Espada stated that Ronel Blanco might begin Sunday on regular rest, according to Rome. However, given Blanco’s 95 pitches in each of his last four starts, Houston will remain cautious with him.
It will be interesting to see how the Astros fare with their injury comeback projects.
Astros continue to seek momentum despite injury woes.
The Astros enter Saturday’s Tigers game with a 32-38 record, third in the AL West standings. Houston is just one win behind the Texas Rangers and nine behind the division-leading Seattle Mariners. The Astros won their first game against Detroit 4-0, thanks to strong performances from Jose Altuve and Alex Bregman
Altuve had three at-bats and recorded two singles and one run. Meanwhile, Bregman went to bat for time, scoring one run, one hit, and one RBI. Bregman continues to play well despite an injury scare.
Bregman left the Astros’ June 9th game against the Los Angeles Angels after getting struck by a pitch in the sixth inning. Fortunately, Bregman’s diagnosis was a bone bruise rather than a more serious condition. Through 66 games, the 29-year-old has 33 home runs and 33 RBIs.
As useful as Bregman is, rumours say the Astros may sell him before the league deadline. However, if he continues to perform well for Houston, they may be forced to keep him on the roster.
Overall, as the MLB season nears its halfway point in 2024, the Astros aim to do everything possible to maintain their lead in the AL West and compete for a playoff place.Astros continue to seek momentum despite injuries.
