Kyle Tucker might be regarded as one of the best sluggers in MLB right now. But when it comes to on-field showmanship, he’s often viewed as being near the bottom of the list. And that’s led some people to wonder: Does his low-key demeanor mean he lacks passion for the game?

Well, that question followed him all winter during free agency and finally came to a head at his introductory press conference at Dodger Stadium. Guess what, the All-Star outfielder was asked point-blank about the chatter surrounding his enthusiasm and drive for baseball. And surprisingly, that moment grabbed everyone’s attention.

As for Tucker’s answer? It was exactly what you’d hope for, and honestly, even more exciting than expected.

“I don’t read into it a whole lot…I try to do my best out there regardless of how I feel… I just try to block out noise,” Tucker said in this first press meet as a Dodger. “Maybe my demeanor…But I know who I am.”

So, if you’ve followed Kyle Tucker for a long time, you already know this: he doesn’t do a lot of celebrating after home runs, and that’s simply who he is. He’s always been calm and even-keeled, the kind of player who lets his bat speak instead of his emotions. As per the insider details, his passion shows up in his preparation, his consistency, and the way he works every day, not in bat flips or flashy reactions.

So no, Tucker isn’t Jazz Chisholm, and he’s never tried to be. But what he does bring is elite value to a team. And if you’re looking for proof, look no further than the Dodgers, who are reportedly willing to pay around $60 million AAV to get his services. That alone tells you how highly he’s regarded.

The Dodgers are famously selective about who they bring into their clubhouse. Andrew Friedman is reportedly very intentional about maintaining a strong team culture. They don’t sign players they think could disrupt it. So, the fact that they were all-in on Tucker says a lot. They had zero concerns about Tucker’s passion or commitment to the game.

Reportedly, Dave Roberts has just confirmed Tucker will slot in as the team’s right fielder, with Teoscar Hernández moving to left, and Tucker is expected to hit second or third in the lineup. So, everything seems aligned between Tucker and the Dodgers. And if “lack of passion” ever comes up, it’s probably best viewed for what it is: a rumor, not reality!

Tucker is already showing a hint of passion with the Dodgers

If you remember, Kyle Tucker had worn No. 30 for the last five seasons with the Astros. And again in 2025 with the Cubs, so it felt like a given he’d stick with that number after arriving in Los Angeles. There was even a fun coincidence there as Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also wore No. 30 during his playing days.

But that wasn’t meant to be. No. 30 carries special meaning in Dodgers history, most notably because of Maury Wills, the franchise’s all-time stolen base leader and a six-time National League steals champion. Hence, the organization is keeping the number off-limits with the intention of retiring it.

With No. 30 unavailable, Tucker opted for No. 23.

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That jersey was last worn by Michael Conforto, whose lone season with the Dodgers didn’t quite pan out the way either side had hoped. Still, the number change hasn’t dampened Tucker’s enthusiasm. If anything, it’s another sign of how committed he is to fitting in and making his mark with his new team. Now, it’s just a matter of letting his play do the talking once the regular season gets underway.