What happened to Kyle Tucker? Breaking down the Astros star’s injury, possible return date

Houston Astros right fielder Kyle Tucker has been placed on a 10-day injured list with a right shin contusion, the club announced ahead of Friday's game against the Los Angeles Angels. For now, the reciprocating roster move is yet to be announced by the Astros.

Tucker might return in a week, as the move is retroactive to June 4. It means he could return by June 14 for the start of the Astros' three-game series against the Detroit Tigers at home.

The injury can be dated back to Monday when Tucker fouled a ball off his shin in the third inning of the game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Minute Maid Park. He was seen in crutches after the game, but the X-rays on his shin came out to be negative.

For their game against the Angels on Friday, the Astros placed Yordan Alvarez into left field, with DH now being taken up by Yainer Diaz, leaving Victor Caratini to play catching duties. Moreover, Trey Cabbage will play right field for the second straight game.

It comes as a major blow to the Astros, who have already lost starting pitchers Jose Urquidy and Framber Valdez for the season. As far as his contribution is concerned, Kyle Tucker (.266) has been one of the few bright spots to have clicked this season despite the Astros posting a 28-35 record.

Entering Friday, Tucker was tied with Baltimore Orioles pitcher Gunnar Henderson for the major league home run lead, with 19.

Joe Espada considers Kyle Tucker day-to-day, says he's doing better, but recovery is slower

Houston Astros manager Joe Espada said that the outfielder is “moving better” but is considered 'day-to-day.'

“The progress has been slower than what we expected. But he is doing much better.” Espada said about Tucker who is still considered day-to-day. “He's moving in there better today and hopefully we can continue that progress to get him moving around and doing baseball activities."

In Kyle Tucker's absence, Joey Loperfido, Grae Kessinger and David Hensley are the outfielders in consideration for receiving a call-up on the 40-man roster. The Astros could also ask Trey Cabbage, Chas McCormick and Mauricio Dubón to fill his void in the outfield.