Astros: Kyle Tucker speaks on the story behind his new foundation

Three days before the 2021 World Series, Houston Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker lost his grandfather, Dwayne, who was his biggest fan. Dwayne lived in south Florida, watching every single game his grandson played in.

Dwayne purchased whatever television subcribtion he needed, while some nights watching Kyle play until 3 a.m. EST depending on where games were being played. Today, Kyle is a month into fundraising for the Kyle Tucker Foundation, which raises money for those in hospice care.

Astros outfielder Kyle Tucker tells the story behind his new foundation to the MLB Players Media.

Tucker’s grandfather passed away a few days before the start of the 2021 World Series, the biggest stage the 24-year-old had been on so far in his career. He didn’t tell many of his teammates, as he looked to keep it in the back of his mind and help the team.

“We were really close,” Tucker said regarding his grandfather. “He was a big part of my life.”

The final months of Dwayne’s life were in hospice care, which left a life changing impact on the Tucker family.

“The people in (hospice) are so caring,” Tucker said. “They are really trying to help out the patient and the family in however way they can.”

The Tucker family has already begun fundraising with events in the Tampa, Florida area, as their goal is to raise awareness and support families that need financial assistance in a challenging time.

“You really shouldn’t be worried about the financial aspect of it at that time in a person’s life or a family’s life,” Tucker said. “It is something that is personal for me and the rest of my family that we are happy to start.”