Leiter Hits Injured List Amid Cubs’ Bullpen Woes
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.
Leiter's Struggles and Contributions
Leiter, 33, has been struggling lately, surrendering eight runs over his last four appearances before the injury sidelined him. Despite these recent struggles, Leiter has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen. Only three out of 20 inherited runners have scored against him, a testament to his effectiveness in managing critical situations.
His ERA has inflated to 5.34 across 32 games, and his season record stands at 2-4. These numbers reflect a dip in his usually reliable performance, exacerbated by his recent difficulties on the mound.
Cubs' Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is the latest setback for a struggling bullpen that has already been plagued by a series of injuries. Notably, 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, leaving the Cubs' bullpen shorthanded and ineffective.
Currently, the Cubs’ bullpen ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA. The loss of Leiter only compounds the issues facing the team, putting their ability to hold leads and provide stability in the late innings into serious question.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
Mark Leiter Jr.'s early contributions were significant, particularly his adeptness at managing inherited runners. Only three of the 20 inherited runners scored under his watch, highlighting his importance to the Cubs' bullpen strategy. However, 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 the vacated roster spot. 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 to help stabilize the Cubs' late-game pitching options.
Focus will now 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 remaining 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 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 is paramount, and the team will be closely evaluated on how they handle these adversities 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."