Cubs first baseman Anthony Rizzo He is struggling with an injury that could jeopardize his chances of being in the team’s roster on opening day, reports Mark Gonzales of the Chicago Tribune. Rizzo underwent an MRI on Wednesday that confirmed the swelling of the head of the ribs on his left side. You are dealing with back spasms as a result of the swelling.
Rizzo, whose back has troubled him in the past, noted that he is a “frustrating” problem, adding, “I just can’t control the outbreaks.” However, that doesn’t mean the 30-year-old will start the season on the disabled list. Rizzo, manager David Ross and the Cubs’ training staff will continue to monitor their status prior to the team’s first game on July 24.
Of course, in a shorter season, it becomes even more important for the Cubs to have a healthy Rizzo to help them lead their offense. The presence of the three-time All-Star and the beloved clubhouse turned into another impressive season in 2019, hitting .293 / .405 / .520 (141 wRC +) with 27 home runs in 613 plate appearances. That kind of production obviously can’t be easily replaced, but if Rizzo wastes time at the start of the season, the Cubs are likely to deploy to third baseman / outfielder. Kris Bryant and receiver Victor Caratini at first base, Gonzales suggests.
