Cubs’ Nick Madrigal suffers crushing injury after MLB demotion

Chicago Cubs infielder Nick Madrigal, who was just optioned to Triple-A Iowa for increased playing experience, had a terrible injury after breaking his left hand during a sluggish offensive and defensive start to the season.

In the fourth inning of Wednesday’s Iowa Cubs game, Madrigal was hit by a pitch that topped 97 mph. This was Madrigal’s first at-bat after being optioned earlier in the week. Madrigal had registered a single, a walk, and an RBI double before to the injury.

Although Madrigal’s length of absence is unknown, it could have an effect on the Cubs’ minor league infield depth, particularly in light of the recent promotion of veteran David Bote.

The Cubs and Nick Madrigal’s struggles

Despite getting little playing time this season, the 27-year-old had trouble. With only three extra-base hits and a.221 average, he was mostly employed as Christopher Morel’s defensive stand-in at third base in the late innings.

The Cubs sent him down to Triple-A in the hopes that he would establish an offensive flow with regular playing time.

These plans have been put on hold due to Madrigal’s absence, particularly in light of Morel’s defensive shortcomings this year.

In terms of fielding %, outs above average, and defensive runs saved, Morel is the least effective third baseman among those who are qualifying. Manager Craig Counsell indicated that Morel’s development at third base is being continuously assessed, meaning the Cubs’ decisions at this position will be regularly monitored.

According to Counsell, via Marquee Sports Network, “I think there’s been some progress in areas and then we’ve taken some steps back on certain days for sure.” “And we definitely need to evaluate that as we get a larger sample size here.”