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 Recent Struggles
Recently, Leiter, 33, has been struggling to maintain his form on the mound. He surrendered eight runs over his last four appearances before his injury sidelined him, severely impacting his performance statistics. Despite these recent challenges, Leiter has been a crucial component of the Cubs' bullpen, excelling particularly in managing inherited runners. In the course of the season, only three out of 20 inherited runners have scored against him—a testament to his reliability in tight situations.
However, his ERA has inflated to 5.34 across 32 games, a sharp uptick reflecting his recent difficulties. His current season record stands at 2-4.
Cubs’ Injury Epidemic
Leiter's injury is just the latest setback for a bullpen that is already struggling to maintain its effectiveness. The Cubs have experienced a cascade of injuries at the back end of their bullpen, leaving the unit shorthanded and ineffective. Adbert Alzolay, the Cubs' Opening Day closer, is currently on the injured list with a forearm strain. Middle relievers Yency Almonte and Julian Merryweather are also sidelined, further compounding the team's woes.
This string of injuries has left the Cubs’ bullpen vulnerable and ineffective. The unit currently ranks 23rd in Major League Baseball with a 4.44 ERA, illustrating their difficulties in holding leads and providing stability in the late innings.
Leiter’s Season by the Numbers
When delving deeper into Leiter's season, his early contributions were particularly significant. His adept management of inherited runners has been a bright spot in an otherwise turbulent season. Out of the 20 inherited runners, only three scored under his watch, highlighting his effectiveness in pressure situations. 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 have recalled left-handed pitcher Luke Little to fill his spot on the roster. Little has shown promise in the minor leagues, but the pressure will be on him to perform at a high level immediately. Joining a bullpen under heavy scrutiny, Little will need to quickly find his footing and help stabilize the Cubs' late-game pitching options.
Focus will now be on how the remaining bullpen members and the newly called-up Little manage in Leiter's absence. The team’s current ranking in the bullpen ERA underscores the urgent need for effective performances from its pitchers to remain competitive in the season.
Conclusion
Injuries have significantly hampered the Chicago Cubs’ bullpen, exacerbating existing challenges and magnifying weaknesses. Mark Leiter Jr.'s injury is a significant setback for a bullpen already reeling from multiple injuries. The burden now falls on the remaining bullpen members and newly promoted Luke Little to step up and deliver effective performances. As the Cubs fight to stay competitive, managing their late-game pitching challenges will be paramount to their success.
Quotes:
"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."