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's Struggles Before the Injury
Leiter, 33, had been struggling lately, surrendering eight runs over his last four appearances before the injury sidelined him. Despite his recent downturn, Leiter had been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen. His effectiveness at managing inherited runners had been a standout feature, allowing only three out of 20 inherited runners to score against him. However, his ERA had inflated to 5.34 across 32 games, and his season record stood at 2-4.
Cubs’ Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is the latest setback for a bullpen that has been plagued by injuries all season. The Cubs have seen a series of injuries among their relief pitchers. Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs' Opening Day closer, is on the injured list with a forearm strain. Middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are similarly sidelined. This string of injuries has left the Cubs' bullpen shorthanded and ineffective, contributing to the bullpen's 23rd rank in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA.
The loss of Leiter compounds the issues for Chicago’s bullpen, putting their ability to hold leads and provide stability in the late innings into serious question.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Mark Leiter Jr.’s early contributions to the Cubs’ bullpen were significant. He was particularly adept at managing inherited runners, allowing only three of 20 inherited runners to score. However, his recent outings have severely affected his ERA, which now sits at 5.34 over 32 appearances. His overall record is 2-4, and his placement on the injured list is a critical loss for the Cubs.
Next Man Up
In response to Leiter’s injury, the Cubs recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little to fill Leiter’s spot on the roster. Little has shown promise in his early outings, but the pressure will be on him to perform at a high level immediately. He joins a bullpen under heavy scrutiny, and he will need to quickly find his footing. The Cubs hope that Little can stabilize their late-game pitching options, but the focus will be on how the depleted bullpen manages in Leiter's absence.
The Cubs’ current standing in bullpen rankings underscores the urgent need for effective performances from every available pitcher. If the team is to remain competitive, managing their late-game pitching challenges will be paramount.
Conclusion
Injuries have significantly hampered the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen, and Mark Leiter Jr.'s injury exacerbates the issue. The burden now falls on the remaining bullpen members and newly called-up Luke Little. The Cubs must tackle their late-game pitching challenges with urgency to stay competitive in a season already fraught with setbacks.
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."