The Houston Astros have had a challenging start to the 2024 MLB season. Houston ranks third in the AL West standings, but they look to build momentum as they close their series against the San Franciso Giants. Furthermore, the Astros received an important injury update on outfielder Kyle Tucker.
Tucker is dealing with a lower leg ailment that caused him to be placed on the 10-day injured list in early June. Houston's team spokesman said Tucker will probably not be back by Friday's Detroit Tigers matchup; yet, he is feeling better, per Brian McTaggart.
Hopefully, Tucker will continue to have an efficient recovery. His ailment started in the bottom of the third inning of Houston's June 3rd, 7-4 win over the St. Louis Cardinals.
Tucker, on a 2-0 count against Cardinals starter Kyle Gibson, uncorked a huge swing on a cutter that drifted inside the plate, as described by ClutchPoints' Jedd Pagaduan. Unfortunately for the Astros right fielder, the batted ball ricocheted off his shin, and he immediately writhed on the ground in pain while he clutched onto the impacted area. He exited the game and has remained out since.
Thankfully, Tucker only sustained a right shin contusion from the incident. With time, he should be back in the Astros lineup. Tucker has had an impressive start to the 2024 season. Through 60 games, he has hit 19 home runs, which ranks him third in the league. In addition, he boasts a .979 OPS (fourth), has been responsible for 40 RBI, and bats a .266 average.
Kyle Tuckers' injury has been a blow to Houston's offense, but they have the opportunity to build momentum with their close-out game against the Giants.
Astros look to keep building momentum despite Kyle Tucker injury
The Giants beat Houston 4-3 in their series opener on June 10th. However, the Astros rallied for a 3-1 victory on Tuesday. Jose Altuve and Alex Bregman lead the club's offensive efforts with one RBI a piece. Bregman also amassed one hit. The veteran baseman helped keep Houston afloat just one day after his injury scare.
Bregman exited the Astros' June 9'th matchup against the Los Angeles Angels after being hit by a pitch in the sixth inning. Fortunately, Bregman received a bone bruise diagnosis instead a more serious ailment.
Houston will continue to rely on Bregman during Kyle Tucker's hiatus. Through 64 games, the 30-year-old right-hander has batted a .236 average, hit nine home runs, and accumulated 32 RBI with a .701 OPS. If all stays well, Bregman looks to help his team come out on top in their series closer against San Francisco on Wednesday afternoon.
The Astros enter their Giants matchup with a 31-37 record, a mark that is a bit of a shocker considering their 2023 showing. Houston finished the season with a 90-72 record, first place in the AL West. The Astros followed their strong regular season showing up with a remarkable playoff run.
Houston advanced to the ALCS but lost to the 2023 World Series champion Texas Rangers. Nevertheless, Kyle Tucker's club looks to keep their foot on the gas and improve their record to get back to the top of the division.
Follow Us
Subscribe