The Chicago Cubs made an important announcement on Tuesday afternoon, revealing that center fielder Cody Bellinger has been activated from the injured list. This move comes after Bellinger suffered a rib injury from running into the wall at Wrigley Field on April 23. Despite not being completely healed yet, Bellinger is eager to make his return to the lineup. He mentioned in an interview before the game that it takes time to be fully pain-free and that he is currently in a good spot with his recovery.
In order to ease Bellinger back into playing, the Cubs have decided to have him serve as the designated hitter for the upcoming games against the San Diego Padres. This will give him the opportunity to test his readiness before potentially taking on his role in center field again. Bellinger shared that his ribs feel good after facing live pitching during batting practice and drills in the outfield. His return is crucial for the team as they aim to have their best players on the field.
As a result of Bellinger’s return, outfielder Alexander Canario was optioned to Triple-A Iowa to make room on the roster. Additionally, pitcher Daniel Palencia was placed on the injured list due to shoulder pain experienced during a recent game. The team is waiting for MRI results to determine the next steps for Palencia’s recovery. On a positive note, right-hander Keegan Thompson has been recalled from Triple-A to fill in the pitching gap left by Palencia.
The Cubs are optimistic about getting Bellinger back into center field eventually, but they are open to playing him at first base in the meantime. With rookie Pete Crow-Armstrong performing well in center field, the team has some flexibility in their lineup decisions. Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the importance of having their best players on the field and sees Bellinger’s return as a step in the right direction. Furthermore, right fielder Seiya Suzuki will embark on a two-day rehab assignment in Iowa before rejoining the Cubs in Pittsburgh on Friday after being sidelined with a right oblique injury.
Cody Bellinger’s return brings a much-needed boost to the Chicago Cubs lineup as they strive to maintain their competitive edge in the league. With a strategic approach to his reintegration and roster adjustments, the team is prepared to make a strong push towards their goals for the season.
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