This season, he has been the player for the Dodgers who has drawn the most disappointment and scrutiny. There have been moments where he was booed, both at home games and away. His performance, particularly during a prolonged hitless streak, has drawn endless criticism.
However, on Friday night, in what has definitely been a low point of his tough debut season with the Dodgers, Kyle Tucker stepped up to the plate in the bottom of the second inning and was met with a reaction he hadn’t experienced much of this year. Fans at Chavez Ravine gave him a warm, lengthy ovation. This gesture, organized on social media the day prior, brought together much of the crowd in a show of support for the outfielder, who is on a $240 million contract, hoping to inspire him to turn his season around.
“It’s been a struggle, you know? I really want to help the team and perform well for the guys in the clubhouse and the fans that show up,” Tucker expressed before the game. Although he grounded out during this emotional at-bat, he continued, “I wish I would’ve done better this year. But there’s still a month and a half left and the playoffs are around the corner. I just need to keep grinding, moving forward, and try to improve every day.”
For Tucker and the Dodgers, there was a shared feeling that Friday might symbolize a turning point. Just last week, Tucker’s struggles peaked as he went 0-for-19 during a homestand, particularly struggling at Dodger Stadium. After a disheartening game in Denver where he was 0-for-5 and misplayed a fly ball, he appeared to be downcast on the bench, prompting discussions about whether he needed a mental break.
Fortunately, in the following days, Dodgers coaches and teammates rallied around Tucker, who managed to get three hits in consecutive games, increasing his batting average slightly. Manager Dave Roberts has consistently supported the four-time All-Star, reiterating his commitment to ensuring Tucker knows he isn’t alone, stating his intention to keep playing him regularly.
“We’re here to support him, I’m here for him,” Roberts mentioned, declaring his belief that Tucker may have turned a corner mentally. “I don’t know what that will translate to in the game, but I’m feeling optimistic.”
On Friday, Tucker did try a new approach by opting to practice hitting on the field prior to the game, a rare choice for him this season. “I haven’t been hitting well, so I thought I’d try something different,” he joked. “Let’s see if it makes a difference.”
After receiving the crowd’s enthusiastic support – reminiscent of a similar reception given to Mookie Betts during his own slump last season – Dodgers fans are hopeful for a revival after what’s been a challenging year for Tucker. “I’m good, really,” Tucker said. “Everyone here is incredibly supportive. Regardless of how I feel, I need to focus on playing and performing. That’s what I aim to do every day.”
