Kyle Tucker’s first season with the Los Angeles Dodgers has not gone according to plan through the first half of the 2026.
There could be some underlying issues contributing to Tucker’s struggles this season, but his habits in the batter’s box have also been uncharacteristic. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts pointed out that Tucker has been chasing pitches out of the zone at a higher rate than in years past.
“No player wants to not perform up to their capabilities. I do think there is a fitting in part of it, wanting to perform up to your expectations part of it. I do think he’s opened up more,” Roberts began on SportsNet LA. “And for me, it’s just wanting him to get back to who he is as a hitter.
“Who he is as a hitter, is a guy that really controls the strike zone. His swing rate has been much higher. His chase rate, much higher. If we can get him back to being who he is, then we’ll bet on the results. So it’s not something we might see tonight, but going forward, that’s something I think we’re going to see.”
Tucker has a chase rate of 25.6% in 2026, which is still in the 73rd percentile for Major League hitters. But is significantly higher than 17.6% chase rate he had in 2025.
The 29-year-old had a nearly identical 17.5% chase rate two seasons ago in what was one of his best offensive campaigns. Although, he missed half that season because of a right shin injury.
Two of Tucker’s three most-productive seasons have come in years where his chase rate was in the 87th percentile or higher. His 2021 season is a bit of an outlier, with a chase rate in the 58th percentile. However, Tucker balanced it out with a whiff rate in the 78th percentile and a strikeout rate in the 81st percentile.
Those figures have regressed this season, with both falling to the 55th percentile.
When is Kyle Tucker returning?
To make matters worse, Tucker was removed in the second inning of Monday’s game against the Minnesota Twins due to lower back spasms. He missed the final two games of the series, but the Dodgers are optimistic about his chances to return relatively soon.
The expectation is the earliest he will be back in the lineup is when the Dodgers begin their series against the San Diego Padres on Friday. But should Tucker still not be in position to play, there’s a reality he will wind up going on the injured list.
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