The Chicago Cubs suffered another setback this week with star outfielder Seiya Suzuki hitting the injured list due to a right oblique strain. Suzuki had been off to an impressive start, ranking among the best hitters in the league with a .305/.368/.525 slash line, 3 home runs, and 13 RBIs in 15 games. However, his absence will be felt as he was a key part of the team’s offense, holding down the No. 2 spot in the lineup and being the team’s best run producer.
The Cubs have called up outfielder Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa to fill Suzuki’s spot in the lineup. Canario, a 23-year-old prospect, has shown promise with a .269/.377/.481 slash line, 5 doubles, and 2 home runs in 13 games for Iowa. He can play all three outfield spots and his right-handed bat will be useful as the team faces several left-handed starters in the upcoming games.
In addition to Suzuki, other players on the IL for the Cubs include ace Justin Steele, veteran starter Jameson Taillon, reliever Julian Merryweather, and slugger Patrick Wisdom who is currently on a rehab assignment. The team will need to rely on depth and strong performances from other players to weather this injury setback and stay competitive.
