Kris Bryant is back and sitting atop the Cubs lineup tonight after missing a couple games in the COVID-19 protocol. He was out because he self-reported intestinal symptoms, which is precisely what players need to do if this season is going to survive.
Since Bryant is the one who took the step, I thought it worth sharing his thoughts on the matter before tonight’s game:
KB on process: "It's a great thing that I went through it, because if I did have it, that's how it starts. One person and it seems like half the team gets it. So I think it's just really important to keep up with those protocols and really take it as seriously as we can." #Cubs https://t.co/4uZ4sEhLcp
— Russell Dorsey (@Russ_Dorsey1) August 3, 2020
Kris Bryant: "If you do feel something, just stay away and take it as seriously as possible. That's the only way we're going to really get through a World Series. I just think it's important. Put your pride and egos aside. It could end up helping the rest of your teammates."
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) August 3, 2020
Spot on. We shouldn’t say this kind of approach would’ve changed things with the Marlins or Cardinals – we can’t know – but it could wind up making a huge difference with some team down the road. Maybe they get a positive test, but because that player had started self-isolation beforehand, it doesn’t shut the whole team down.