Bellinger diagnosed with broken ribs, PCA gets promoted

By: Jacob Zanolla

Last night I wrote that I was hoping Bellinger would not require a stint on the Injured List. The X-Rays came back negative, so I figured he would only miss a week or so. Instead, Craig Counsell reported this afternoon that he has broken two ribs, and will be placed in the IL. This means he will be out at least six weeks. After the rehab assignment, I’m thinking the earliest we see Bellinger back on the field is early July. To replace Bellinger, Pete Crow-Armstrong is being recalled. When I wrote about the injury yesterday, I figured he would stay down in Iowa to continue working on his hitting. Clearly they think he is the best option, which is still very exciting for Cubs fans. Alex Cohen is the broadcaster for the AAA Iowa Cubs, so he has been able to see a lot of PCA lately. Therefore, his insight is really important, and Cohen seems optimistic about the move.

Notes on Pete Crow-Armstrong —

1. His defense has been AWESOME, especially over last 10 games.
2. Surface level offensive numbers don't tell whole story.

He hit a HR last week that was called foul (clearly fair) and has hit four balls over 101 mph that have been put outs.
— Alex Cohen (@voiceofcohen2) April 24, 2024

I’m excited for PCA to get another chance in the big leagues, as he is still looking for his first major league hit. Tauchman will start Wednesday night in center field, with Alexander Canario playing in right field. My assumption is that later on in the game, Crow-Armstrong will come in for Canario and then switch positions with Tauchman, along with getting some starts every once in a while.

This adds another player to the list of injured Cubs, which is growing quicker than anyone wants.

Currently on the IL: Justin Steele, Seiya Suzuki, Julian Merryweather, Kyle Hendricks, Drew Smyly, Cody Bellinger

JUST came back: Jameson Taillon, Patrick Wisdom

So many injuries, yet the Cubs are still 14-9 going into Wednesday’s game against the Astros. That’s a positive way look at it, although all of these injuries at once is absolutely brutal. Steele should be back within a few weeks, but the team’s depth will really be tested the next month or two.

Photo Credit: Sports Illustrated