Leiter Hits Injured List Amid Cubs’ Bullpen Woes
CHICAGO -- In a season already marred by injuries and inconsistencies, the Chicago Cubs have been dealt another blow as set-up reliever Mark Leiter Jr. was placed on the injured list with a right forearm strain, the team announced on Sunday.
Leiter's Struggles Mount
Leiter, 33, has been struggling lately, surrendering eight runs over his last four appearances before the injury sidelined him. The right-hander has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen; however, his recent form has been concerning. Despite allowing only three out of 20 inherited runners to score, Leiter's ERA has ballooned 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 beleaguered bullpen. The Cubs have seen a series of injuries at the back end of their bullpen throughout the season. Adbert Alzolay, the team's Opening Day closer, is currently on the injured list with a forearm strain. Middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are similarly sidelined, leaving the Cubs shorthanded and struggling to maintain consistency in late-game situations.
The Cubs’ bullpen ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA, and the loss of Leiter compounds the issues the bullpen has been facing. The bullpen's ability to hold leads and provide stability during the late innings is now in question, and the pressure is mounting on the remaining members to step up in his absence.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Despite his recent struggles, Mark Leiter Jr.’s early contributions to the team were significant. He was particularly adept at managing inherited runners, allowing only three out of the 20 runners he inherited to score. However, his recent outings have negatively affected his ERA, which now sits at 5.34 over 32 appearances. With a season record of 2-4, Leiter's 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 the vacated roster spot. Little has shown promise, and the pressure will be on him to perform at a high level immediately. Joining a bullpen under heavy scrutiny, Little will need to quickly find his footing to help stabilize the Cubs' late-game pitching options.
Focus will now be on how the depleted bullpen manages in Leiter's absence. The Cubs hope that with effective performances from the remaining bullpen members and the newly called-up Little, they can navigate through their late-game pitching challenges and remain competitive in the standings.
Conclusion
Injuries have significantly hampered the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen this season, and Mark Leiter Jr.'s recent injury exacerbates the issue. With key pitchers like Adbert Alzolay, Yency Almonte, and Julian Merryweather already sidelined, the burden falls on the remaining bullpen members and newly recalled pitcher Luke Little to step up and manage the late-game pitching responsibilities effectively. As the Cubs fight to stay competitive, managing their bullpen 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."