Miguel Montero Leaves Game with Right Knee Issue (UPDATE: Rizzo Left, Too)
The hits just keep on coming. Well, not when the Cubs have runners in scoring position, but you understand the idiom.
As the Cardinals started to blow out the Cubs today, an errant throw to the plate caused Miguel Montero to bend awkwardly on an attempted tag, and he was immediately in visible discomfort:
Miguel Montero is having his right knee examined. We will update when more information is available.
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) June 22, 2016
Although I know that many point to his underperformance at the plate this year, and struggles with the arm (yeah, and sometimes glove, too), it would still suck to lose him for any length of time. Montero is not just a leader on the team and among the primary guys working with Willson Contreras, there’s a reason he catches a guy like Jake Arrieta. That is to say, Montero’s really good behind the plate overall, and that has value. As does the depth associated with having three catchers on the roster. As does the depth of not having to worry about who the next guy is at AAA Iowa, because if Montero is out, the Cubs are a 39-year-old David Ross injury away from having to lean almost entirely on a rookie behind the plate. I love me some Contreras, but that’s a quick way to see some hidden cracks that you can’t otherwise explain start to appear in the rotation.
Other folks seem not to be too worried about this. I’m fairly concerned. Hopefully good news is forthcoming.
UPDATE: There is indeed good news on Montero, but, surprisingly, kinda eh news on Anthony Rizzo, who also left the game early:
Montero is fine, but Rizzo was pulled because his back's a little stiff. Maddon said he prob picks that potential DP if he's fine. Day 2 day
— Sahadev Sharma (@sahadevsharma) June 22, 2016
Maddon says Montero fine. Exam showed no problem with knee. Should stay on playing schedule.
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) June 22, 2016
Rizzo's back tightened. That's why he came out. Day to day. Might sit tomorrow vs. LHP.
— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) June 22, 2016
Rizzo dealt with some back stiffness a couple weeks ago, you may recall. Hopefully a day off to rest will help get him back out there.
As for the news on Montero: WHEW.
