Leiter Hits Injured List Amid Cubs’ Bullpen Woes
CHICAGO -- In a season already marred by injuries and inconsistencies, the Chicago Cubs faced yet another setback as set-up reliever Mark Leiter Jr. was placed on the injured list with a right forearm strain. The team made the announcement on Sunday, adding to a growing list of issues plaguing their bullpen.
Leiter's Struggles and Contributions
Leiter, 33, has been struggling recently. He surrendered eight runs over his last four appearances before being sidelined by the injury. Despite these recent troubles, Leiter has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen throughout the season. Remarkably, only three out of 20 inherited runners have scored against him, highlighting his effectiveness in managing high-pressure situations.
However, Leiter's recent performances have significantly inflated his ERA to 5.34 across 32 games. His season record stands at 2-4, underscoring the turbulent season he has endured. The loss of Leiter is a critical blow for the Cubs, who relied heavily on his ability to manage and contain inherited runners.
Cubs’ Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is only the latest in a series of setbacks for the Cubs’ struggling bullpen. They have seen a spate of injuries to key pitchers, further compounding their woes. Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs' Opening Day closer, is already on the injured list with a forearm strain. Additionally, middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are also sidelined with injuries.
This string of injuries has left the Cubs' bullpen shorthanded and ineffective. Consequently, the Cubs’ bullpen ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA. The loss of Leiter only adds to the growing concerns about their ability to hold leads and provide stability in the late innings.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Despite recent struggles, Mark Leiter Jr.’s early contributions to the team were significant. He excelled in managing inherited runners, with only three out of 20 scoring under his watch. These performances were crucial in maintaining leads and providing much-needed stability to the Cubs' bullpen in the early part of the season.
However, Leiter’s recent outings have severely affected his ERA, which now stands at 5.34 over 32 appearances. His overall record is 2-4, reflecting the ups and downs of his season. His placement on the injured list is undoubtedly a critical loss for the Cubs as they strive to remain competitive in a challenging season.
Next Man Up
To fill Leiter’s spot on the roster, the Cubs have recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little. Little has shown promise, but the pressure will be on him to perform at a high level immediately. Joining a bullpen already under heavy scrutiny, Little will need to quickly find his footing and deliver effective performances.
The Cubs hope that Luke Little can help stabilize their late-game pitching options. With the bullpen ranking 23rd in Major League Baseball, the focus will be on how they manage in Leiter's absence. Effective performances from the remaining bullpen members and the newly called-up Little will be paramount in the Cubs' fight to stay competitive.
Conclusion
Injuries have significantly hampered the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen, and the loss of Mark Leiter Jr. exacerbates the issue. The burden now falls on the remaining bullpen members and newly called-up Luke Little to fill the void and manage the late-game pitching challenges. As the Cubs fight to stay competitive, managing their depleted bullpen will be a critical aspect of their strategy moving forward.
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."