The offseason is surprisingly enjoyable for a number of reasons. Hope is an almost free currency. Rumors tickle us at every turn. And the Chicago Cubs remain virtually injury-free.
But the team has reported to camp, and the offseason is over. So, too, is the injury-free ride.
Yesterday, Dale Sveum revealed that catcher Geovany Soto’s practice ended early thanks to a minor groin strain. Sveum said the injury wasn’t serious, but it was enough to keep Soto out of most of yesterday’s exercises.
“It was more [because] you can’t catch without using your groin so we just kind of gave him the day off today,” Sveum said.
Generally, “minor” injuries shouldn’t get fans breathing into a paper bag. But, on the heels of several years of serious injury problems, Cubs fans are understandably on edge. Further, a groin injury – particularly for a catcher – can be a lingering problem of the kind that hampers performance, even if it doesn’t force a guy to sit. Soto missed a few weeks early last season with a groin strain.
Also, the fact that this is coming just days after Soto reported to camp is a reason to be mildly concerned. At least Soto is said to be in excellent shape, which should help his recovery. And, since the injury comes at the beginning of camp, the Cubs can afford to have Soto take it very easy over the next couple weeks, if it comes to that. Soto, himself, says he’s fine, and sitting yesterday was just precautionary.
Ultimately, the minor strain is probably just that – minor.
But God is watching. And so are we.