When you look at the Astros’ lineup, you might be tempted to go with the greatness of Jose Altuve or the massive rawness of Jordan Alvarez. But if you look beyond that, there’s someone who’s also doing great things offensively for Houston. And that’s Kyle Tucker.
King Tuck, who turns 26 this Tuesday, completed another impressive season in 2022, playing in 150 games. While his OPS wasn’t as high as in 2021, he still hit 28 doubles and 30 homers with a career-high 107 RBI, 71 runs, 25 steals in 29 attempts, 59 walks and 95 strikeouts. His slash line sat at .257/.330/.478/.808.
Along with those stats, Tucker made his first All-Star game, won a Gold Glove as a right fielder and finished 15th in the MVP voting. In the World Series, the youngster hit two long balls and drove in five runs to help the Astros win it all.
But that’s not it. Since 2021, there are only 19 players with at least 60 home runs. a list easily topped by Aaron Judge’s 101 dingers. Tucker is one of them (60), and the only other Astro besides Alvarez (70). Additionally, Tucker’s 199 home runs in that span are 12th most in baseball. As if that wasn’t enough, Kyle’s 39 strikeouts rank 16th in the Majors.
Speaking of those three departments, there are only two players in the Majors with at least 65 home runs, 240 RBIs and 45 stolen bases. This is Guardians’ Jose Ramirez and Kyle Tucker. If you add that to the fact that Tucker plays excellent defense in right field, we say the word ELITE.
The Astros have already locked in Jordan to a six-year, $115 million contract extension, which could look like more of a bargain if Alvarez continues to produce at his current stellar level. Now is the time to consider giving Tucker a contract extension that will make him an Astro for a long time.
Fortunately, the Astros still have time, as the outfielder won’t become a free agent until after the 2025 season. But over time, they risk seeing Tucker continue to increase his value by playing great baseball without much fanfare. The 2023 season will be another test for Tucker. performing at a high level once again could bring him a little closer to a millionaire extension. Time will show.
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