Chicago Cubs Face Roster Adjustments Amid Injuries

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Cubs Navigate Injuries as Season Progresses

The Chicago Cubs are dealing with key injuries as the regular season continues. Shortstop Dansby Swanson suffered a left oblique strain and was placed on the 10-day injured list. An MRI confirmed the strain, which he sustained on Sunday. The Cubs remain optimistic about Swanson’s return before the season concludes.

Roster Moves and Player Updates

Alongside Swanson’s injury, right-hander Edward Cabrera was placed on the 15-day IL due to a blister on his right middle finger. In response, the Cubs recalled right-hander Javier Assad and outfielder Kevin Alcántara. Infielder James Triantos was optioned to accommodate the move, and infielder Owen Miller was called up for added support.

In a notable roster adjustment, right-hander Daniel Palencia was transferred to the 60-day IL, allowing Miller to join the 40-man roster. This change does not influence Palencia’s return since he has been on the IL since June 16.

Anticipated Recovery Timetable

Swanson, who is 32, is projected to be sidelined for about a month. This would bring him back with roughly two weeks remaining in the season. This incident marks his first stint on the IL since May 2024, when a right knee sprain kept him out for 10 days.

Manager Craig Counsell expressed readiness to expedite Swanson’s recovery. “Dansby’s already ready to attack the injury and do whatever he can to make this go as quick as possible,” Counsell said. “We’ll get Dansby back this year.”

Infield Adjustments

While Swanson recovers, Nico Hoerner will take over shortstop duties, with Pedro Ramírez stepping in at second base. Matt Shaw is set to join the infield mix once he returns from his left hand/wrist sprain.

Miller provides a backup option, possessing experience as a shortstop and first baseman.

Ramírez, who has shown promise in previous games, is now expected to have an increased role. Displaying a .299 average and .353 on-base percentage, Ramírez’s performance has been commendable in his major-league outings.

“Pedro’s a good player, bottom line,” said Counsell about Ramírez’s ability. “If Pedro has to come and play every day in April, I’m good with it. He’s more than ready for this.”

Edward Cabrera’s Season Challenges

Cabrera’s season with the Cubs has not gone smoothly. Joining the team via trade from the Miami Marlins, Cabrera has faced multiple challenges, including continued blister problems.

His blister issue—which emerged again during his start against the St. Louis Cardinals—leads the team to reconsider his pitching role. Counsell resigned Cabrera to bullpen duties if it assists in managing the ailment.

“We’ve got to come up with some better answers on the blisters thing,” Counsell commented, acknowledging the challenges faced. “When the volume is lower, maybe we can make some progress there.”

Cabrera’s Perspective and Performance

Cabrera is receptive to reduced pitching duties, emphasizing his commitment to supporting the team. His statistics reflect a challenging season, with a 5.68 ERA and the lowest strikeout rate of his six-year career in the majors.