Chicago Cubs star outfielder Kyle Tucker was removed in the fourth inning of Sunday’s rubber match against the Cincinnati Reds.
Tucker was 1-for-2 with a ground rule double and a hit by pitch prior to his exit.
In the first inning, Tucker was hit by a pitch that barely clipped his toe. He then tried to steal second base but was caught stealing for the first time in 17 attempts this season.
During the headfirst slide into second base, Tucker face-planted and his face hit the dirt and his helmet. Tucker’s nose appeared to be cut, but he remained in the game until after he fouled out to the catcher in his fourth inning plate appearance.
Tucker left the game with a jammed right ring finger, per Andy Martinez of Marquee Sports Network.
Vidal Brujan replaced Tucker in right field and will hit behind Ian Happ in the lineup.
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Tucker, 28, is having an excellent season for the Cubs. The lefty slugger has 12 home runs with 39 RBI and is slashing .284/.394/.524.
The Cubs are currently 36-22 and hold a three-game lead over the St. Louis Cardinals in the National League Central.
It’s uncertain if Tucker will need a stint on the injured list or if he will get a couple days off to rest. Chicago doesn’t play on Monday and will travel to Washington for a three-game series with the Nationals.
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