Cubs' Kyle Tucker Plays Through June Hand Fracture Affecting Performance

Chicago Cubs right fielder Kyle Tucker has been playing through a hairline fracture in his right hand since early June, an injury sustained while sliding into second base against the Cincinnati Reds. Although initial X-rays were negative, further imaging revealed the fracture near where the pinky and ring finger meet, and while the injury showed signs of healing by mid-June, it has visibly affected Tucker's performance, with his batting average and extra-base hits declining sharply since July. Tucker chose not to go on the injured list, continuing to play despite the pain, but recent poor performance led the Cubs to give him several days off to reset. Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer acknowledged the injury's impact on Tucker's mechanics and stats, and Brewers manager Pat Murphy also noted Tucker appeared hurt, though Tucker himself has downplayed the injury's effect. The situation highlights the challenges athletes face in playing through injuries and the delayed public awareness of such conditions. Tucker is expected to return to the lineup during the team's upcoming west coast trip.