The Chicago Cubs have had a tough weekend in LA as injuries continue to mount in the series against the Dodgers. They won 16-0 on Saturday, but at a cost. Sunday brought more bad news and now fans and the organization are worried about the depth of the roster.
Seiya Suzuki Day-to-Day with Wrist Pain
On Saturday night, Seiya Suzuki left the game with right wrist pain. Despite his absence, the Cubs won big. Manager Craig Counsell said after the game that Suzuki is day to day. They will monitor him closely as they get through this early part of the season.
Suzuki’s injury forced Miguel Amaya into action, and he delivered by hitting his first homer of the year. Amaya has been a bright spot in an otherwise long list of injuries for the Cubs.
Justin Steele Out for the Season After Tommy John Surgery
The biggest news came Sunday when the Cubs announced that starting pitcher Justin Steele will have Tommy John surgery on his left elbow. That means he’s done for the 2025 season and the Cubs are going to have to fill a big hole in the rotation. Steele’s absence leaves a void that the Cubs need to fill fast if they want to stay in the National League Central.
Carson Kelly Exits Game with Hand Contusion
The injuries didn’t stop there. Sunday night, catcher Carson Kelly left the game in the bottom of the 6th inning after suffering a left hand contusion. According to Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times, Kelly was hit in the hand on his last at-bat and was replaced by Miguel Amaya.
Kelly has been one of the Cubs’ best hitters so far this season with a line of .417/.571/1.042, 4 HR, 13 RBI. Losing him, even for a little while, is a big blow to a lineup that relies on him so much.
Amaya, who replaced Kelly, has shown some promise this season. He was batting .250/.273/.400 with 1 HR, 4 RBI before Sunday. But filling in for Kelly full time might be a big ask for the young catcher.
Cubs Hang Tough Against Dodgers
Despite the injuries the Cubs showed some grit Sunday and were up 3-2 going into the 8th. Justin Turner was the DH for Suzuki and brought some veteran stability to the lineup. Can the Cubs keep it going without their key guys?