Following a slow start to the season both offensively and defensively, Chicago Cubs infielder Nick Madrigal who was recently optioned to Triple-A Iowa for more playing time suffered a heartbreaking injury after fracturing his left hand.
Madrigal was hit by a 97-mph pitch in the fourth inning of Wednesday’s Iowa Cubs game, his first with the team since being optioned earlier in the week. Before the injury, Madrigal had recorded a hit, a walk, and an RBI double.
It's unclear if Madrigal will miss any time, but his potential absence could impact the Cubs' minor league infield depth, especially following the recent promotion of veteran David Bote.
The Cubs and Nick Madrigal's struggles
The 27-year-old had struggled this season with limited playing time. He was hitting .221 with a .535 OPS and only had 3 extra-base hits, primarily being used as a late-game defensive replacement for Christopher Morel at third base.
This prompted the Cubs to send him down to Triple-A, hoping that consistent playing time would help him find an offensive groove.
Madrigal's absence has paused those plans, especially considering Morel's struggles defensively this season.
Morel ranks at the bottom among qualified third basemen in fielding percentage, Outs Above Average, and Defensive Runs Saved. Manager Craig Counsell mentioned ongoing evaluation of Morel's progress at third base, indicating the Cubs' decisions regarding this position will be closely observed.
“Christopher, I think in areas there’s been some progress and then we’ve taken some steps back on days for sure,” Counsell said via Marquee Sports Network. “And as we get a bigger sample here, we’ve got to evaluate that, absolutely.”
Nick Madrigal's uncertain return
So, the opportunity for Madrigal to regain his spot at hot corner seems unlikely with his current injury. Historically, consistent playing time has benefited him. For instance, in 2022, he performed well after returning from injury and played regularly in August and early September, hitting .277 in 28 games until another injury ended his season.
Additionally, in the previous season, he showcased solid defensive skills at third base, ranking sixth among third basemen with 10 Outs Above Average (OAA).
Instead, the Cubs will lean on Morel at third base, with Patrick Wisdom and Bote available to step in for specific matchups as needed.
It's difficult to estimate the duration of Madrigal's absence until more details about the location and severity of the fracture are known. However, it's reasonable to assume that Madrigal won't be available for promotion to the major league team in the near future.
As for the Cubs, they aim to even their season series against the hard-hitting Cincinatti Reds, at the Great American Ball Park. The game is scheduled to start at 7:10 p.m. and will be broadcast on the MLB Network.
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