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, surrendering eight runs over his last four appearances before the injury sidelined him. Despite these recent troubles, Leiter has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen. Notably, only three out of 20 inherited runners have scored against him. However, his ERA has inflated to 5.34 across 32 games, with his season record standing at 2-4.
Cubs’ Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is the latest setback for a struggling bullpen already grappling with a series of injuries. The Cubs have seen a significant number of key players at the back end of their bullpen land on the injured list. Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs' Opening Day closer, is also sidelined with a forearm strain. Additionally, middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are similarly out of action.
This troubling string of injuries has left the Cubs' bullpen shorthanded and ineffective. Currently, the Cubs’ bullpen ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA. The loss of Leiter exacerbates the issues for the bullpen, further putting their ability to hold leads and provide stability in the late innings in serious doubt.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Mark Leiter Jr.’s early contributions to the Cubs were significant. His notable skill in managing inherited runners effectively set a high standard, with only three out of 20 inherited runners scoring under his watch. However, his recent outings have severely affected his ERA, which now sits at 5.34 over 32 appearances. With an overall record of 2-4, his placement on the injured list represents a critical loss for the Cubs.
Next Man Up
In response to Leiter’s injury, the Cubs have recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little to fill his spot on the roster. Little has shown promise in his earlier performances, but the pressure will be on him to perform at a high level immediately. He joins a bullpen that is under heavy scrutiny and in desperate need of stabilization.
Little will need to quickly find his footing as the Cubs look to stabilize their late-game pitching options. The focus will be on how their depleted bullpen manages in Leiter's absence. Given the Cubs’ standing in the bullpen rankings, it underscores the urgent need for effective performances to remain competitive.
Conclusion
The injuries have significantly hampered the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen, with Mark Leiter Jr.'s injury further compounding the issue. The burden now falls on the remaining bullpen members and the newly called-up Luke Little to step up and deliver. As the Cubs fight to stay competitive, managing their late-game pitching challenges will be paramount to their success.
"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."