Cubs Eye Spoiler Role Against Mets as Kyle Tucker’s Return Looms
The Chicago Cubs find themselves on the brink of a postseason run, with dreams of a World Series title dancing in their heads. After a strong first half, the second half of the season has been a mixed bag, leaving many fans wondering what could have been. Despite the ups and downs, the Cubs have clinched a playoff spot and, with just a week left in the regular season, they have a chance to play spoiler against the New York Mets.
The Importance of Kyle Tucker’s Return
As the Cubs gear up for their final stretch, all eyes are on outfielder Kyle Tucker. His return could be pivotal, not just for the Cubs’ morale but also for their lineup as they head into October. Tucker has been sidelined for most of September due to a left calf strain, casting a shadow over the team’s overall performance. The anticipation surrounding his comeback is palpable, and while his exact return date remains uncertain, the latest updates are encouraging.
Progress in Rehabilitation
According to reports, Tucker has made notable strides in his rehabilitation. He was seen running on Monday, and Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer shared optimism about the outfielder’s progress. Tucker has returned to Chicago after conducting his rehab in Florida, and Hoyer stated that he is “moving in the right direction.” The hope is that Tucker can rejoin the active roster “for a few games” before the regular season concludes.
However, the reality is that Tucker’s return might not come as quickly as fans hope. While he has made progress, he has struggled to regain his full strength, and if he does return this week, it may be in a limited capacity.
Tucker’s Impact on the Lineup
Before his injury, Tucker was experiencing an inconsistent second half, impacting his usual performance at the plate. Despite this, he boasts a solid season average of .270 with 22 home runs, highlighting his potential to make a significant contribution to the Cubs’ postseason aspirations. Given his track record and skill set, Tucker’s presence in the lineup could be the difference-maker as the Cubs aim to capitalize on their playoff opportunity.
As the Cubs prepare for their upcoming games against the Mets, all eyes will be on Tucker’s recovery. Whether he can make a timely return may very well determine how effectively the Cubs can assert themselves as a spoiler in the National League.
