The Chicago Cubs’ roster faced scrutiny before Sunday’s game against the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field. The situation worsened when Dansby Swanson left the field after his first swing due to left-side tightness. The team anticipates Swanson will join the injured list, according to manager Craig Counsell.
Swanson shared, “We don’t really know anything yet. We’ll find out more tomorrow once we get some imaging done.” James Triantos, a rookie, replaced Swanson and played second base, while Nico Hoerner shifted to shortstop. During Swanson’s absence, Hoerner will cover shortstop, and rookie Pedro Ramírez is expected to fill in at second base.
Ramírez made his debut at first base on Sunday, providing relief for Michael Busch. The Cubs lack a backup first baseman since the trade deadline, and Counsell expressed concern about future coverage at the position. “First base is a spot where we’re a little concerned about what’s next should something happen to Michael,” Counsell said.
Beyond Swanson’s injury, the team grappled with other roster challenges. Right-hander Edward Cabrera rejoined the rotation after being activated from the injured list. Acquired in an offseason trade with the Miami Marlins, Cabrera replaced Javier Assad, who moved to Iowa to accommodate the 26-man roster. Despite Assad’s impressive 1.88 ERA since July, he was sent down, as he had options remaining unlike the bullpen leverage arms Ryan Rolison and Ryan Zeferjahn.
In his return, Cabrera conceded seven earned runs, elevating his ERA to 5.68. He attributed his poor performance to a blister on his right middle finger, an issue he first encountered in late May. Although Cabrera tried playing through the pain, his command faltered, resulting in Puig’s three walks and added runs in the fourth inning. “I tried to battle, but I couldn’t finish the inning,” Cabrera admitted.
Cabrera’s rotation status is uncertain, especially given his ongoing command issues and alternatives like David Peterson, Assad, and Colin Rea. Peterson, acquired from the New York Mets, currently stands as a bullpen option.
The Cubs cannot afford to wait for Cabrera to regain form. Counsell acknowledged the need to reassess Cabrera’s starting role. Cabrera, unfazed by the blister, stated, “I have had those in the past. In my mind, I’m not going to miss a start over a blister.”
Andy Martinez is a freelance reporter for the Chicago Tribune.