The Chicago Cubs Face Bullpen Struggles as Mark Leiter Jr. Hits Injured List
In a season already marred by injuries and inconsistencies, the Chicago Cubs face yet another setback. On Sunday, the team announced that set-up reliever Mark Leiter Jr. has been placed on the injured list due to a right forearm strain.
Leiter's Recent Struggles
Leiter, 33, has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen despite his recent struggles. Over his last four appearances, he surrendered eight runs, which inflated his ERA to 5.34 across 32 games. His season record stands at 2-4, a considerable decline from his early-season performance.
Leiter has proven to be particularly adept at managing inherited runners. Out of 20 inherited runners, only three have scored under his watch. This capability made him an essential part of the bullpen, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt.
The Cubs’ Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is the latest in a series of setbacks for the Cubs’ beleaguered bullpen. Key relievers have been sidelined, leaving the team shorthanded and struggling to maintain leads in the late innings.
Opening Day closer Adbert Alzolay is currently on the injured list due to a forearm strain. Additionally, middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are also sidelined. These injuries have severely hampered the Cubs' ability to hold leads and provide stability in late-game situations.
The cumulative effect of these injuries is evident in the team's overall bullpen performance. Currently, the Cubs' bullpen ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA, a clear indication of the challenges they face.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Mark Leiter Jr.’s early-season contributions were significant for the Cubs. His ability to manage inherited runners significantly bolstered the bullpen, with only three out of 20 inherited runners scoring. However, his recent outings have been far from optimal, severely affecting his ERA.
With an ERA now sitting at 5.34 over 32 appearances and a 2-4 record, his sudden placement on the injured list represents a critical loss for the Cubs. Given the current state of their bullpen, the Cubs can ill afford to lose another arm.
Next Man Up: Luke Little
In response to Leiter’s injury, the Cubs have recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little to fill the void. Little has shown promise in his previous outings, but the pressure is now on him to perform at a high level immediately. He joins a bullpen that is under heavy scrutiny and must quickly find his footing.
Little’s ability to adapt and deliver will be crucial as the Cubs look to stabilize their late-game pitching options. The team's current standing in bullpen rankings underscores the urgent need for effective performances from all members.
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 to step up and perform. As the Cubs fight to stay competitive, managing their late-game pitching challenges becomes paramount.
The focus will be on how the depleted bullpen manages in Leiter's absence. Effective performances will be critical to the Cubs' standings as they look to overcome their current challenges and remain competitive throughout the season.
"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."