The Chicago Cubs have activated right fielder Kyle Tucker from the injured list as they gear up for the postseason. Tucker, 28, was sidelined since September 2 due to a tight left calf, but he made a promising return as the designated hitter on Friday, contributing to the Cubs’ decisive 12-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals with a hit, a walk, and two runs scored.
Before the game, manager Craig Counsell indicated that Tucker would ease back into action, avoiding unnecessary exertion on the bases, with the primary goal of getting him valuable at-bats. The team hopes Tucker will be ready to reclaim his position in the outfield over the weekend, just in time for the Cubs’ wild card round against the San Diego Padres next week. Tucker’s performance this season has been notable, with a batting average of .270, along with 22 home runs and 25 stolen bases.
In addition to Tucker’s return, the Cubs are monitoring the condition of rookie pitcher Cade Horton, who has been experiencing discomfort in his back and rib area. Horton departed his last start against the New York Mets after just two innings. He completed some light throwing exercises before Friday’s game and plans to test his condition further by pitching from the bullpen mound over the weekend.
Horton’s emergence in the second half of the season has been remarkable, boasting a post-All-Star break ERA of 1.03, one of the lowest recorded with a minimum of 10 starts. He was initially designated to start Game 1 against the Padres but remains in a holding pattern as he continues his recovery.
With postseason play on the horizon, the Cubs have ensured sufficient rest for their top three starters—Horton, Shota Imanaga, and Matthew Boyd—giving them flexibility in deciding the Game 1 starter. Cubs president of baseball operations, Jed Hoyer, emphasized the importance of making cautious decisions based on each player’s recovery progress.
In a roster adjustment to accommodate Tucker’s return, infielder Carlos Santana was optioned to the Cubs’ Arizona Complex in Mesa, joining the team’s taxi squad for the postseason.
This balanced approach to player health and readiness reflects the Cubs’ strategic planning as they prepare for the critical games ahead in their quest for postseason success.