Chicago Cubs pitcher Marcus Stroman is inching closer to a return as he recovers from a hip injury and rib cartilage fracture. Manager David Ross has revealed that Stroman will throw a bullpen session in Arizona, marking a significant step towards his potential comeback this season. While Stroman’s exact timeline remains uncertain, his return would be a welcome boost for the Cubs as they aim to secure a playoff spot.
Stroman has been sidelined for over a month, and questions lingered about his availability for the rest of the season. However, the recent progress in his recovery has renewed hope for the Cubs and their fans. Following a successful bullpen session, Stroman will likely face live hitters and possibly require a rehab start or two in the minor leagues before rejoining the starting rotation.
The right-hander has been a key contributor for the Cubs this year, posting a 3.85 ERA and 3.58 FIP across 23 starts. However, his performance has been a tale of two halves. In his first sixteen starts, Stroman recorded an impressive 2.28 ERA and 3.33 FIP. However, his last seven starts before the injury saw his numbers take a hit, with a 9.00 ERA and a 4.39 FIP. It remains to be seen how much of that decline was due to his injuries.
If Stroman can return to form, he would provide the Cubs with another quality option in their starting rotation. Lefty ace Justin Steele and veteran Kyle Hendricks have been carrying the load, but adding Stroman’s talent and experience would further strengthen their pitching staff for a potential playoff run.
In addition to the update on Stroman, the article provides insight into other players in the NL Central division. The Chicago Cubs are closely monitoring bullpen options, including Brandon Hughes, Nick Burdi, and Ben Brown, who are expected to pitch for Triple-A Iowa. The bullpen has lacked a strong left-handed option since Hughes’s injury earlier in the season. Therefore, his potential return would be a welcome addition to the team’s relief corps.
Meanwhile, the Cincinnati Reds have suffered a setback with rookie infielder Matt McLain’s oblique injury, which is expected to keep him out of action for around two to three more weeks. McLain’s absence is a blow to the Reds, who rely on his offensive production and defensive skills. However, there is hope for the team as second baseman Jonathan India is on track to begin a rehab assignment after recovering from plantar fasciitis.
Lastly, the St. Louis Cardinals face uncertainty with left-hander Steven Matz’s rehab from a lat strain. Manager Oli Marmol suggests that Matz’s season could be in jeopardy, with limited time remaining for his return. Even if Matz does make a comeback, he won’t have enough opportunities to build up his stamina as a starter. Matz has had a mixed season with the Cardinals, but his overall performance has been solid, boasting a 3.86 ERA and a 3.76 FIP in 25 appearances.
As the regular season nears its conclusion, the return of key players like Stroman, Hughes, and India could make a significant impact on their respective teams’ playoff aspirations.
