Kyle Tucker struggles at plate in postseason 2023

ARLINGTON – Kyle Tucker’s offensive struggles have been a noticeable issue for the Houston Astros in the first two games of the American League Championship Series. While he is not the sole player to have struggled at the plate, the spotlight is often brighter on star players, regardless of their performance.

Tucker, who was named the Astros’ Most Valuable Player in 2023 and is expected to receive some AL MVP votes, currently holds a 2-for-22 record in the postseason with seven strikeouts. This includes an 0-for-8 performance in the first two ALCS games against the Rangers. Due to this slump, Houston manager Dusty Baker has considered moving Tucker down the batting order for Game 3, a crucial game for the Astros who are currently trailing 2-0 in the series.

“It’s not uncommon for a starter to struggle in the playoffs,” said Baker. “Tuck is a talented player who will find his stride. We had a productive conversation today, and I am considering moving him down the order temporarily to alleviate some pressure. We all need to step up and contribute to turn things around.”

During Game 1 of the ALCS, Tucker batted fifth in the lineup and was moved up to third in Game 2. However, he went 0-for-4 in both games. Throughout the regular season, Tucker made 56 starts in the third and fifth spots in the batting order, as well as 43 starts in the cleanup spot. Nevertheless, he has never hit lower than fifth this year.

Tucker expressed his willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team win, stating, “My focus is on playing solid defense, moving runners over, and driving guys in. Tomorrow’s game will be a test, and I hope we can generate runs. Pitching and defense will also play a crucial role in our success.”

Regarding Tucker’s batting order position in Game 3 against Rangers’ starter Max Scherzer, Baker mentioned that Michael Brantley has had more success against Scherzer than Tucker. This could potentially drop Tucker to sixth in the order, behind Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, Yordan Alvarez, José Abreu, and Brantley.

“I constantly contemplate different lineups and lose sleep over it,” admitted Baker. “That’s how dedicated we are to finding the best possible strategy.”

Astros hitting coach Troy Snitker believes that Tucker may be placing too much pressure on himself in the postseason, given his exceptional performance during the regular season, where he hit .284 with 29 home runs, 37 doubles, and an AL-leading 112 RBIs.

“It’s only a matter of time before he breaks out of this slump,” said Snitker. “We expect him to make the necessary adjustments and return to his usual form for the remainder of the series.”

Tucker demonstrated his ability in Game 2 with the hardest-hit ball of the game, despite it resulting in an out. The ball was lined out to first base with an exit velocity of 106.4 mph. While he has not outwardly shown frustration, it is undoubtedly present.

“It’s tough, especially because I haven’t contributed much, and we’ve lost the first two games,” Tucker admitted. “Every little aspect of the game can make a difference, whether it’s moving runners over or driving them in. Even an out can be significant if it contributes to scoring a run, especially in the playoffs. I will do whatever it takes to make a positive impact.”

Tucker’s performance has had a significant impact on the Astros’ success throughout the regular season. He recorded a 1.096 OPS in wins and a .609 OPS in losses.

“He’s a tremendous hitter, and although he’s going through a rough patch, there are still a couple of games left,” said outfielder Chas McCormick. “If he can bounce back and produce, it will be crucial for us. It’s not just him; it’s a collective effort. I’ve witnessed these guys excel before, and I believe we can replicate that in the next few days.”