Kyle Tucker Experiments With Taking Batting Practice On Field

Mired in season-long struggles, Kyle Tucker tried something new before Friday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Tucker joined his Los Angeles Dodgers teammates in taking batting practice on the field at Dodger Stadium. It marked his first time doing so this season, whether at home or on the road. Tucker, Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman historically skip on-field BP.

“I haven’t been hitting great this year, so I figured I’d try something else,” Tucker explained of his decision. “Hopefully it helps.”

The change in routine came after the 29-year-old went a combined 3-for-9 with one double and one RBI over the final two games against the Colorado Rockies. Tucker was 0-for-5 in the series opener at Coors Field.

Embracing a change was lauded by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts.

“I’m excited. I think it’s a good thing to change his routine, and I give him credit for that,” Roberts said.

There wasn’t an immediate payoff as Tucker went 0-for-4 with one walk. He came up empty late with the bases loaded and nearly hit into an inning-ending double play in the bottom of the 10th before Tommy Edman delivered a walk-off win.

Tucker participating in batting practice was noteworthy in its own right, but especially so with it taking place at home. Tucker’s Dodger Stadium splits this season are well below career averages, though that also applies to Mookie Betts, Freeman, Teoscar Hernández and Ohtani.

Tucker entered Friday batting .189/.286/.272 with 11 doubles, two home runs and 17 RBI over 60 games (57 starts) at Dodger Stadium this season. Mounting frustration with his struggles at home prompted Roberts to bench Tucker for a game during the Dodgers’ series against the Milwaukee Brewers.

However, with only three games on their current homestand, Roberts said he planned to have Tucker in the lineup for the entire series against the Pirates.

Dodgers supporting Kyle Tucker

Although Tucker was benched last weekend, Roberts and the Dodgers have otherwise stuck by the four-time All-Star. Their overarching message is what’s been a lost season can be salvaged by a strong close and contributions in the playoffs.

For his part, Roberts shared he’s sensed a mental change with Tucker of late and believes that will allow for better results at the plate moving forward. Roberts also commended Dodgers fans for giving Tucker a standing ovation at multiple points on Friday.

“That was great. I loved hearing the support. I know he felt it. That’s what fans should do. He’s grinding, he cares as much as anyone,” Roberts said after the Dodgers’ walk-off win. “It’s his baseball card and he’s got to take these 0-fors home, so it’s good that the fans understand that and support him.”