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. 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 his recent woes, Leiter has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen, effectively managing inherited runners with only three out of 20 scoring under his watch. His ERA, however, has inflated 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 bullpen that has been struggling all season. The Cubs have seen a series of injuries to key relievers. Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs' Opening Day closer, is also on the injured list with a forearm strain. Middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are similarly sidelined. This string of injuries has left the Cubs' bullpen shorthanded and ineffective, currently ranking 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA.
The loss of Leiter compounds the issues for the already beleaguered bullpen. Their ability to hold leads and provide stability in the late innings is now in serious question.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Mark Leiter Jr.’s early contributions cannot be overlooked. He was particularly adept at managing inherited runners, with only three of the 20 inherited runners scoring under his watch. However, his recent outings have severely affected his overall performance metrics. His ERA now sits at 5.34 over 32 appearances, with a record of 2-4. His placement on the injured list is a critical loss for the Cubs.
Next Man Up
To fill Leiter’s spot on the roster, the Cubs have recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little. Little has shown promise in the minor leagues, 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. The Cubs hope his presence will help stabilize their late-game pitching options.
Focus will be on how the depleted bullpen manages in Leiter's absence. The team’s standing in the bullpen rankings underscores the urgent need for effective performances from all relief pitchers.
Conclusion
Injuries have significantly hampered the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen this season, 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 help the Cubs remain competitive. Managing their late-game pitching challenges will be paramount for any hope of success moving forward.
"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."