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.
Leiter has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen. Notably, only three out of 20 inherited runners have scored against him this season. However, his ERA has inflated to 5.34 across 32 games, contributing to his season record of 2-4.
Cubs' Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is the latest setback for a bullpen that has struggled with health issues all season. The Cubs have seen a series of injuries at the back end of their bullpen, including Opening Day closer Adbert Alzolay, who 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.
The Cubs’ bullpen currently ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA, and the loss of Leiter compounds their difficulties. The bullpen's ability to hold leads and provide stability in the late innings is now in serious question.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Earlier in the season, Mark Leiter Jr.’s contributions were significant. He was particularly adept at managing inherited runners, with only three out of the 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. His overall record stands at 2-4, and his placement on the injured list represents a critical loss for the Cubs.
Next Man Up
The Cubs have recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little to fill Leiter’s spot on the roster. Little has shown promise in the minors, but the pressure will be on him to perform at a high level immediately. He joins a bullpen that is under heavy scrutiny and will need to quickly find his footing if the Cubs hope to stabilize their late-game pitching options.
The focus will be on how their depleted bullpen manages in Leiter's absence. The team's standing in the bullpen rankings underscores the urgent need for effective performances from all its members, including Little.
Conclusion
Injuries have significantly hampered the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen this season, and Mark Leiter Jr.'s injury only exacerbates the issue. The burden now falls on the remaining bullpen members and newly called-up Luke Little to step up and fill the void. As the Cubs fight to stay competitive, managing their late-game pitching challenges will be paramount.
"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."