LATEST Injuries & Moves: Alzolay Shut Down for at Least Two Weeks
The Chicago Cubs have been dealing with a slew of injuries and roster moves, affecting their lineup and bullpen dynamics. One of the more significant updates involves right-handed pitcher Adbert Alzolay, who is set to miss at least two weeks due to a right flexor strain. Here’s a closer look at the latest developments and their implications for the Cubs.
Adbert Alzolay Shut Down (May 22)
Alzolay, who sought a second opinion on his right flexor strain, will be shut down from throwing for at least two weeks as the Cubs adopt a cautious treatment plan. Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the severity of the injury, which is similar to the one that sidelined Alzolay for two weeks late last season.
“It’s going to be a while,” Counsell stated. “He’s shut down right now from throwing for probably two weeks, minimum, and then we’ll kind of go from there. But it could be longer than that.”
Alzolay was placed on the 15-day injured list (IL) on May 13, after the injury flared up during his outing on May 12. In 18 games this season, he has a 4.67 ERA with 13 strikeouts, six walks, and six homers allowed in 17 1/3 innings.
Nico Hoerner Returns to Lineup (May 21)
Infielder Nico Hoerner made his return to the Cubs’ lineup in the series opener against the Braves, after missing six games due to a left hamstring issue. Hoerner had been a crucial fill-in at shortstop for Dansby Swanson, who was also sidelined.
Hoerner is batting .269 with two homers, 11 doubles, 12 RBIs, and 25 runs scored through 41 games this season. His return brings stability to the Cubs’ infield, especially with Swanson’s concurrent activation from the IL.
Dansby Swanson Activated from IL (May 21)
Shortstop Dansby Swanson was activated from the 10-day IL, where he had been placed due to a right knee sprain. Swanson’s return was anticipated, and his presence adds depth and experience to the Cubs’ infield. Before his injury, Swanson was hitting .209 with four homers, 12 RBIs, and a .626 OPS over 37 games.
Swanson expressed confidence in his recovery, attributing his return to the diligent work of the medical staff. “I feel good,” Swanson said. “The medical staff has done a great job over the last couple of weeks just helping me understand how to rest and what to do to get back healthy.”
Pete Crow-Armstrong Optioned to Triple-A Iowa (May 21)
Outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong was optioned to Triple-A Iowa to get regular at-bats. Crow-Armstrong, who recently graduated from Pipeline’s prospect lists, was the Cubs’ top prospect. In 23 games with the Cubs this year, he hit .236 with four extra-base hits, nine RBIs, five steals, and a .659 OPS.
Manager Craig Counsell explained the decision, emphasizing the need for Crow-Armstrong to play regularly rather than in a limited bench role. “Essentially, it was, ‘Do we want Pete in this smaller role for right now?’ And at this point in the season, we decided the answer was no,” Counsell said.
Luis Vazquez Recalled (May 21)
Infield prospect Luis Vazquez was recalled from Triple-A Iowa. Known for his strong defensive play at shortstop, Vazquez is hitting .262 with a .757 OPS in 39 games for Iowa. Vazquez provides additional coverage as Swanson and Hoerner recover from their respective injuries.
Counsell acknowledged Vazquez’s role as primarily supportive, monitoring Swanson and Hoerner’s health closely. “It’s a support role, there’s no question,” Counsell said. “We’ll evaluate that day by day, just to see how are they doing and whether we still need to manage it.”
Other Notable Injuries
Several other Cubs players are on the injured list, including: Drew Smyly (right hip impingement): Expected to return the week of May 27 after a successful Minor League rehab outing.
- Daniel Palencia (right shoulder strain): Expected to make another rehab outing before returning.
- Jordan Wicks (left forearm strain): Set to begin a Minor League rehab assignment.
- Yency Almonte (right shoulder strain): playing catch and nearing a return.
- Keegan Thompson (viral illness): recovering and expected back soon.
- Colten Brewer (low back strain): Out since May 15 and nearing a return
These injuries and roster moves are crucial for the Cubs as they navigate the season, trying to maintain competitiveness despite the setbacks. The return of key players like Hoerner and Swanson, along with the cautious handling of Alzolay’s injury, will be pivotal for the team’s performance in the coming weeks.