The Chicago Cubs had a scare on Sunday as starting pitcher Matt Garza left live batting practice early with a lat strain to his left side (medical definition – injury to hip). Garza was supposed to throw 40 pitches, but only threw 20. Garza took himself out after meeting with the team doctor because he didn’t want to push it. Later that say, Garza and manager Dale Sveum said the injury isn’t serious and is day-to-day.
However, Garza is expected to undergo a MRI on his last strain later today or tomorrow.
Depending on the results, Garza could miss the start of the season and could result in a DL stint as well. General Manager Jed Hoyer said they will not rush him back, which makes complete sense.
In good news, Garza said his throwing arm felt great. If you recall, Garza injured his arm late July and miss the rest of the season.
Even if the injury isn’t serious and is day-to-day, I doubt Garza is traded before opening day and a mid-season trade. The set-back won’t showcase him enough during spring training for a team to present the Cubs with a great offer. If any trade offer is made to Epstein/Hoyer.
Side note: Rick Sutcliffe was at Cubs camp as always working with/watching the pitchers and he said Garza looked great before leaving with the lat strain. He also said Kyuji Fujikawa and Edwin Jackson looked awesome.
Let’s just see what the results of the MRI on Garza are and go from there!
