Dodgers hope to revive Kyle Tucker's form as second half begins

Kyle Tucker entered the 2026 season on a $240 million contract but has struggled, posting career‑low numbers in batting average, slugging and OPS while his chase rate rose to 25.6 %, well above his typical rates. Manager Dave Roberts noted Tucker has been “chasing pitches out of the zone” and emphasized the need for him to return to his usual strike‑zone control.

After missing three games with lower‑back spasms in Minnesota, Tucker returned to the lineup for the Dodgers' series opener against the San Diego Padres. He said the injury was resolved and he felt his swing was back on track, describing the absence as a possible “mental reset.” Roberts added that the team hopes the break will help Tucker improve both physically and mentally as the club pursues a third straight World Series appearance.

The Dodgers remain optimistic that Tucker can regain his former production, which has been crucial to the franchise's recent success.