Kyle Tucker Announces Update After Removal From Dodgers Lineup

Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images

Kyle Tucker Announces Update After Removal From Dodgers Lineup

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Sep 20, 2026 2:35 PM ET

Kyle Tucker has started to heat up at the perfect time for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Signed this past offseason to a massive four-year, $240 million deal, he spent most of the summer struggling at the plate and unable to string together any consistent production. Just when it seemed like he would get hot, he would slide right back into another cold stretch.

However, September has been a different story entirely for Tucker. Over 18 games this month, the 29-year-old has posted a .288 batting average, .397 on-base percentage, 1.075 OPS, six home runs and 13 RBIs, while striking out just seven times and walking 12. The discipline and production have both been at an elite level.

The Dodgers are on the verge of clinching a first-round bye in the National League, and Tucker’s surge has undoubtedly been a big reason why.

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker.Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

During Saturday’s win against the San Francisco Giants, Tucker fouled a ball off his right shin and appeared to be in some discomfort. He remained in the game and finished it, and manager Dave Roberts said afterward he did not expect it to be an issue moving forward.

However, Tucker was not included in Sunday’s series finale lineup against San Francisco. Teoscar Hernandez shifted to right field with Enrique Hernandez taking over the vacated spot in left field.

Speaking with reporters pregame, Tucker continued to downplay the issue and revealed he did not undergo any further testing. “I feel fine,” Tucker said, per Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic.

Kyle Tucker: “I feel fine.”

Said he didn’t get any further testing. Like he said yesterday, hit him on a different spot than where he broke his shin in 2024. https://t.co/8KvewI1fkA
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) September 20, 2026

Tucker has an injury history with his right shin, previously breaking it back in 2024 when he was with the Houston Astros.

However, this situation is nowhere near as serious, and he will look to return for Tuesday’s series opener against the San Diego Padres. It is unclear if he will be available off the bench Sunday.