"Everything I'm hearing from Kyle Tucker is good" - Astros manager Joe Espada gives optimistic update regarding injured slugger

Manager Joe Espada and the Houston Astros have been without a key contributor, Kyle Tucker, for a while. He went on the IL after fouling a ball off his right shin on June 3, sustaining a right shin contusion.

It was not a pretty sight when Tucker initially went down, as he could be heard yelling in pain. While the injury doesn't seem severe, it has been difficult for him to recover from, leaving fans wondering when he could return.

Espada understands the concern but is not going to rush the three-time All-Star back. However, he went on MLB Network Radio giving the fanbase an optimistic update:

"When it comes to Tuck, he is progressing very well. He's actually in Houston right now, doing work with our trainers, medical staff, (and) he's hitting. The next step for Tuck is that we need to get him running."

Tucker is progressing through his injury in Houston with the club's medical team and has been seen on the field lightly throwing. The next step in his rehab is to start running, which will be his biggest hurdle. Espada said:

"His tone is encouraging to hear him say, 'I'm good Joe, I'm able to do this with no pain, I'm able to do that and I don't feel it as much.' So, everything I'm hearing from Kyle Tucker is good."

Tucker is getting closer and closer to returning. While there is still no timetable, the club is optimistic that he will return before the season ends.

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Astros have played well without Kyle Tucker in the lineup

Houston Astros - Kyle Tucker (Image via IMAGN)

While starting off the season poorly, the Astros have been able to find their groove again. They have climbed back up to their familiar spot at the top of the American League West.

This is surprising, given Kyle Tucker has been down for over two months. He's a huge part of the club's offense, hitting .266/.395/.584 with 19 home runs before hitting the IL.

Other players have certainly stepped up in his place like Yordan Alvarez, who is having another stellar season. He has gone deep in Houston's last two games and has upped his batting average to .300,

Alvarez and others must continue to play well, keeping Houston in contention until Tucker returns. They cannot fold now that he's starting to get healthier.