The Chicago Cubs are off to a solid start this season, but the injury bug is already starting to bite. The headline this week: ace pitcher Justin Steele has landed on the 15-day injured list with left elbow tendinitis—an ailment he’s battled twice before.
While Steele’s absence is a big blow, the Cubs were dealt another scare during Saturday night’s electrifying 16-0 rout of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Outfielder Seiya Suzuki exited the game with right wrist discomfort, an issue that reportedly began during Chicago’s previous series against the Athletics.
Suzuki’s potential absence looms large. He’s been a key offensive force early in the season, already racking up four home runs, 15 RBIs, and an impressive .292/.390/.538 slash line across 17 games. Replacing that level of production won’t be easy, and any extended time away would be a serious setback for Chicago’s lineup.
As of now, the severity of Suzuki’s injury remains unclear. He was removed from the game as a precaution and replaced in the designated hitter spot by Miguel Amaya. Fortunately for the Cubs, Amaya stepped up in a big way—going 2-for-3 with a home run and three RBIs, helping power the blowout win.
With Saturday’s victory, the Cubs improved to 10-7 and currently sit atop the NL Central standings. While it’s early in the season, all eyes will be on the health updates of Steele and Suzuki in the coming days, as the Cubs aim to keep their momentum going.
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