Former Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Michael Busch is the latest MLB personality to deny the claim that Kyle Tucker doesn’t like baseball.
During his time in free agency, questions of Tucker’s dedication and passion for baseball arose, posing themselves as a counterargument for signing the player. Busch played with Tucker for the Chicago Cubs in 2025, and revealed why the notion wasn’t true.
“Tucker was a great teammate and he was always out there,” Busch said. “Always working hard, always playing hard. Tremendous player, but like a great teammate.”
Tucker himself spoke out about the rumors during his introductory press conference after the Dodgers signed him to a four-year, $240 million contract.
“I don’t read into it a whole lot,” Tucker said. “I know what I try and do out on the field and what I bring to the clubhouse. I try and do my best out there regardless of how I feel or what the situation is. I’m going to try and go out there and win games.
“…I’m fired up. I’ve been playing in the playoffs for a while now. There’s nothing that beats that, I’m excited to continue that here.”
The four-time All-Star has done more than just verbally refute the claims; his past actions have shown he wants to play baseball. Just last season, Tucker played through a hairline fracture in his hand.
Despite playing through the injury, Tucker had 22 homers and 73 RBIs with a .841 OPS through his 136 games last season. He made his fourth consecutive All-Star Game and won a Silver Slugger award in 2025 as well.
Feb 26, 2026; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Kyle Tucker against the Chicago White Sox during a spring training game at Camelback Ranch-Glendale. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn ImagesWhat Does Kyle Tucker do for the Dodgers?
Tucker was the best free agent available during the offseason, and will instantly slot into the Dodgers’ lineup.
He will occupy his preferred right field for L.A., moving Teoscar Hernandez back to left — where he played during the Dodgers’ World Series run in 2024.
As for where he will bat in the lineup, manager Dave Roberts said he will likely occupy the No. 2 spot behind Shohei Ohtani in the coming season, followed by both Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman.
Tucker is a proven winner, already having a World Series championship under his belt, and will bring more invaluable experience to a strong Dodgers lineup.
Are you excited to see more of Kyle Tucker this season?
LA Baseball Report
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