Leiter Hits Injured List Amid Cubs’ Bullpen Woes
CHICAGO -- In a season already marred by injuries and inconsistencies, the Chicago Cubs were dealt another blow as set-up reliever Mark Leiter Jr. was placed on the injured list with a right forearm strain, the team announced Sunday.
Leiter, 33, has been struggling lately. He surrendered eight runs over his last four appearances before the injury sidelined him. Despite his recent difficulties, Leiter has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen, as only three out of 20 inherited runners have scored against him. However, his ERA has inflated to 5.34 across 32 games, and his season record stands at 2-4.
Cubs' Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is the latest setback for a struggling bullpen. The Cubs have seen a series of injuries at the back end of their bullpen. Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs' Opening Day closer, is also on the injured list with a forearm strain. Middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are similarly sidelined, leaving the Cubs' bullpen both shorthanded and ineffective.
This string of injuries has created significant challenges for the Cubs. The bullpen now ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA. The loss of Leiter compounds these issues, putting the bullpen's ability to hold leads and provide late-game stability in question.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Mark Leiter Jr.’s early contributions were significant for the Cubs. He was particularly adept at managing inherited runners, allowing only three of the 20 inherited runners to score. His recent outings, however, have severely affected his ERA, which now sits at 5.34 over 32 appearances. His overall record of 2-4 signifies a season of mixed results. His placement on the injured list is a critical loss for the Cubs as they strive to find consistency in their bullpen.
Next Man Up
In response to Leiter's injury, the Cubs have recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little to fill Leiter’s spot on the roster. Little has shown promise, but the pressure will be on him to perform at a high level immediately. He joins a bullpen already under heavy scrutiny, where he will need to quickly find his footing. The Cubs hope that Little, alongside the remaining bullpen members, can stabilize their late-game pitching options.
The focus will now be on how the Cubs' depleted bullpen manages in Leiter's absence. The team’s standing in the bullpen rankings underscores the urgent need for effective performances. With their standing on the line, the Cubs are looking for any sign of resurgence to keep their season afloat.
Conclusion
Injuries have significantly hampered the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen throughout the season. Mark Leiter Jr.'s injury exacerbates the existing issues, leaving the bullpen shorthanded and struggling. The burden now falls on the remaining bullpen members and newly called-up Luke Little to step up and deliver. The Cubs continue to fight to stay competitive, and managing their late-game pitching challenges has become paramount.
Quotes:
"CHICAGO -- In a season already marred by injuries and inconsistencies, the Chicago Cubs were dealt another blow as set-up reliever Mark Leiter Jr. was placed on the injured list with a right forearm strain, the team announced Sunday."