The Los Angeles Dodgers clubhouse is firmly in Kyle Tucker‘s corner.
Third baseman Max Muncy discussed his embattled teammate’s struggles Thursday and explained how the entire team is helping Tucker through what’s been a rough first season in Hollywood.
“You just let him know that you’re there for him,” Muncy said Thursday during an appearance on the “Dodgers Territory” podcast. “It’s his first year in L.A.. He’s across country from his home. It’s the first year with a new baby for him. Obviously, the big (contract). There’s a lot of things going on right now, and he has to find a way to battle through all of that.”
Tucker, perhaps the most sought-after free agent of last offseason, joined the two-time defending champions on a four-year, $240-million contract in January. His short-term, high-value deal was structured to help the free-spending Dodgers maintain payroll flexibility; Tucker is earning $1 million this year and $55 million in 2027, with $60-million player options in ’28 and ’29. He also received a $64-million signing bonus.
Over the first five months of his deal, however, Tucker hasn’t proven to be the most lucrative investment for owner Mark Walter. The 29-year-old has been among the worst players in baseball, slashing .232/.327/.368 with 11 homers, 55 RBIs, and seven steals. Defensively, he ranks last in defensive runs saved and outs above average among qualified right fielders. Tucker has been particularly dreadful at Dodger Stadium, hitting just .189/.286/.272 with two homers in 234 plate appearances.
Before entering his prolonged slump, the four-time All-Star averaged 27 homers, 87 RBIs, and 21 steals per season from 2021-25. Tucker’s personal hardware includes a Gold Glove, two Silver Sluggers, a World Series ring with the Houston Astros, and an RBI crown in 2023.
Tucker’s struggles have reached a new low over the last few weeks. He’s hit just one homer since July and had been 0-for-26 until doubling Tuesday in Colorado. The Florida native also muffed two easy fly balls this week – one at Coors Field and a second in L.A. – which prompted boos from the Dodgers faithful.
Muncy, now in his ninth season with the Dodgers, stressed that Tucker’s on-field struggles haven’t diminished his standing in the clubhouse.
“We have his back no matter what. He’s part of this team. He’s part of this clubhouse. And nothing’s ever gonna change that,” Muncy said. “No matter how good or bad someone plays, you’re part of this team, and you’re a part of the family. And so for us, that’s always the biggest thing, is just let him know that we’re there.”
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Source: Sports Baseball – The Score
