Leiter Hits Injured List Amid Cubs’ Bullpen Woes
CHICAGO -- In a season already marred by injuries and inconsistencies, the Chicago Cubs faced another setback 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, with only three out of 20 inherited runners scoring against him. However, his ERA has inflated to 5.34 across 32 games, and his season record now stands at 2-4.
Cubs’ Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is the latest setback for a struggling Cubs bullpen. The team has seen a series of injuries at the back end of their bullpen, leaving them shorthanded and ineffective. Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs' Opening Day closer, is also on the injured list with a forearm strain, along with middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather.
These injuries have compounded the issues for the Cubs' bullpen, which ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA. The loss of Leiter makes holding leads and providing stability in the late innings even more challenging for the bullpen.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Mark Leiter Jr.’s early contributions were significant, particularly in managing inherited runners, with only three of the 20 inherited runners scoring under his watch. Despite these early successes, his recent outings have severely affected his ERA, which now sits at 5.34 over 32 appearances. His overall record is 2-4, and his placement on the injured list is a critical loss for the Cubs.
Next Man Up
In response to Leiter’s injury, the Cubs recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little to fill his spot on the roster. Little has shown promise, but the pressure will be on him to perform at a high level immediately. He joins a bullpen under heavy scrutiny and will need to quickly find his footing.
With their late-game pitching options in flux, the Cubs hope Little can help stabilize the bullpen. The team’s standing in the bullpen rankings underscores the urgent need for effective performances from the remaining bullpen members and newly called-up players like Little.
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. As the Cubs fight to stay competitive, managing their late-game pitching challenges will be paramount.
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."