MLB: Chicago Cubs at Athletics MLB: Chicago Cubs at Athletics Apr 2, 2025; West Sacramento, California, USA; Chicago Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki (27) runs the bases after hitting a three run home run during the second inning against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-Imagn Images

Chicago Cubs manager blasted for injury decision

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Jordan Sigler | Last updated Apr 15, 2025 10:50 AM ET

The Chicago Cubs are shorthanded in their series against the San Diego Padres. Chicago has been the victim of several unfortunate injury news headlines.

Starting pitcher Justin Steele is out for the season as he is set to undergo Tommy John surgery to repair his left elbow. On Saturday night, designated hitter Seiya Suzuki exited the Cubs’ 16-0 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers with a wrist injury.

On Sunday night, catcher Carson Kelly exited Chicago’s 4-2 win over the Dodgers with a hand injury. Fortunately, Kelly’s hand wasn’t broken.

The Cubs started Justin Turner as their designated hitter and Miguel Amaya at catcher in their 10-4 loss to the Padres on Monday night in front of 47,078 fans at Petco Park.

An update on two injured Chicago Cubs

Per Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times, Cubs manager Craig Counsell said Suzuki and Kelly are recovering and believe they will be back in the lineup when they host the Arizona Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field on Friday.

“Craig Counsell said both Seiya Suzuki (right wrist pain) and Carson Kelly (left hand contusion) are improving,” Lee posted. “He expects they’ll be available by Friday at the latest, but likely sometime this series.”

Craig Counsell said both Seiya Suzuki (right wrist pain) and Carson Kelly (left hand contusion) are improving. He expects they’ll be available by Friday at the latest, but likely sometime this series.

— Maddie Lee (@maddie_m_lee) April 15, 2025

Cubs fans question Craig Counsell’s decision

MLB: Spring Training Chicago Cubs at Yomiuri Giants Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell (11) talks to media members before the game against the Yomiuri Giants at Tokyo Dome. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

Fans on social media were confused as to why the Cubs kept a short bench in their final game against the Dodgers and in their series against the Padres. Counsell chose to risk that over putting both players on the injured list for 10 days.

“If it’s Friday, put them on the freaking IL. Stop playing with a short bench,” posted a fan.

“So play short all week who is the back up catcher,” asked another.

“It’s Monday….wtf? IL both of them. Why is this so hard for this team,” wondered a poster.

In fairness to the Counsell and the Cubs, the team has an off day on Thursday. So Chicago is taking a slight risk with a short bench in the Padres series if both players can be available on Friday.

MLB: Texas Rangers at Chicago Cubs Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell is seen prior to a game against the Texas Rangers at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Patrick Gorski-Imagn Images

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

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