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Chicago Cubs utility man and former World Series MVP Ben Zobrist has not played since the beginning of May after filing for divorce from his wife, Julianna.
But after a lengthy rehab assignment, the Cubs will activate Zobrist on Sunday as they look to run down the St. Louis Cardinals in the National League Central.
Most of the press members in Chicago had speculated that the 2019 season would be Zobrist's last, as his contract expires after this year and he turned 38 back in May.
However, at a press conference on Sunday morning, Zobrist indicated that he is not sure whether or not he will retire following this season:
Zobrist not sure about retirement yet .My faith and-family Come before my career .
— Bruce Levine (@MLBBruceLevine) September 1, 2019
Zobrist also commented on his personal situation, telling reporters he hoped to mend his relationship with his wife:
Zobrist as open and honest as could be expected. Says he hopes relationship with his wife can be healed. Nothing is moving forward in a legal sense right now, according to him.
— Jesse Rogers (@JesseRogersESPN) September 1, 2019
Given the legal process has halted, it is unclear whether or not the divorce has been finalized. In any case, Zobrist is ready to return to the field.
The Eureka, IL native got off to a slow start in 2019, slashing .241/.343/.253 through 26 games before taking his leave of absence. He also struggled during his rehab assignment, hitting just .189 in 12 games across four different levels.
Regardless of his performance, however, the Cubs have made it clear they will welcome Zobrist back into the clubhouse. Chicago has been criticized throughout the season for lacking veteran leadership and sometimes looking listless on the road.
Ben Zobrist has been hailed as a big clubhouse guy and a leader since his first year with Chicago in 2016, and the Cubs will hope that his presence can galvanize the club over the final month of the regular season.
