Nico Hoerner, the Cubs’ second baseman, has missed his fourth consecutive game due to a left hamstring issue, raising concerns that he might require time on the injured list. Despite going through a standard pregame routine on Thursday, his hamstring continued to bother him, according to manager Craig Counsell. They are monitoring his condition day by day, but the possibility of him needing to be sidelined remains. Hoerner, who earned a Gold Glove last year, has a batting average of .269 with two home runs and 12 RBIs in 41 games this season.
In addition to Hoerner, the Cubs are also dealing with the absence of All-Star shortstop Dansby Swanson, who is on the 10-day IL due to a right knee sprain. Swanson took batting practice on Friday as part of his recovery process. Meanwhile, pitcher Drew Smyly is recovering from a right hip issue, and Jordan Wicks is on the IL with a left forearm strain.
During Friday’s game against the Pirates, outfielder Seiya Suzuki was given a day off as planned, according to Counsell. Furthermore, right-handed reliever Colten Brewer was placed on the 15-day IL due to a low back strain, leading to the recall of Porter Hodge from Triple-A Iowa, potentially marking his major league debut.
