Leiter Hits Injured List Amid Cubs’ Bullpen Woes
CHICAGO -- Already grappling with a season plagued by injuries and inconsistencies, the Chicago Cubs received 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 struggled lately, surrendering eight runs over his last four appearances before the injury sidelined him. Despite these recent issues, Leiter has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen, with only three out of 20 inherited runners managing to score against him. His ERA, however, 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 blow for a bullpen already reeling from multiple setbacks. The Cubs have faced a string of injuries affecting their bullpen's back end. Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs' Opening Day closer, is on the injured list with a forearm strain. Middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are also sidelined. This spate of injuries has left the Cubs' bullpen shorthanded and often ineffective.
The Cubs' bullpen currently ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA. Leiter's absence compounds the challenges, raising questions about the bullpen's ability to hold leads and provide late-inning stability.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Mark Leiter Jr.’s initial contributions to the team were significant, particularly in managing inherited runners. Under his watch, only three of the 20 inherited runners scored. However, his recent outings have severely impacted his ERA, which now stands at 5.34 over 32 appearances. His overall record for the season is 2-4. His 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 his spot on the roster. Little has shown promise, but the pressure will be on him to deliver high-impact performances immediately. He joins a bullpen under heavy scrutiny and will need to quickly find his footing to help stabilize the Cubs' late-game pitching options.
The team is now focused on how their depleted bullpen will manage in Leiter's absence. The current standing of their bullpen in league rankings underscores the urgent need for effective performances from the remaining members and newly called-up pitchers 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 recalled Luke Little to step up and fill the void. The Cubs are fighting to stay competitive, and managing their late-game pitching challenges has become paramount. How the team handles these setbacks will likely determine their success for the remainder of the season.
"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."