Houston Astros outfielder has been sidelined for almost three months due to a fractured shin, contrary to the team’s previous description of the injury as a “deep bruise of the bone” or “shin contusion,” sources familiar with the situation have revealed.
According to three individuals briefed on the situation, Tucker actually suffered a shin fracture. When asked twice on Saturday if Tucker’s injury was a fracture, Astros general manager Dana Brown denied it.
In a statement to The Athletic on Monday morning, Brown said, “After several rounds of medical imaging, we suspect there may have been a small fracture. As with all such injuries, recovery involves not only healing the fracture but also regaining strength in the surrounding muscles. Tucker has put in a tremendous effort to return to the field, and we’re pleased he’s now ready to contribute in September and the postseason.”
Tucker’s agent, Jason Romano from Excel Sports Management, declined to comment further on Monday afternoon.
Tucker has been out since June 3, when he injured his right leg by fouling a ball during a game against the St. Louis Cardinals, marking a 91-day absence that is soon coming to an end. He has been taking live batting practice with minor-league pitchers, participating in outfield drills, and joined the Astros for their series in Cincinnati that began on Monday.
On Sunday, Brown mentioned during the team’s pregame radio show that Tucker might return to the major-league roster as early as Wednesday or Thursday, potentially skipping a minor-league rehab assignment altogether.
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