NEWSLETTER
Yesterday, Jason Heywaed was removed from the Cubs fourth game in a row against the Cardinals with shortness of breath and light-headedness. From there, he was sent to the hospital for further evaluation and for the most part, that’s all we knew.
Fortunately, David Ross spoke to the media earlier today and revealed a bit more, including the good news that Jason Heyward is feeling better:
Ross: Jason Heyward has the day off today. Feeling better, but still some tests to go.
Wouldn't address Heyward specifically, but said the Cubs have had no positive COVID tests.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) September 7, 2020
What remains unclear is what tests he has taken and what tests he still has on the docket tomorrow. Your mind immediately drifts to COVID-19 for obvious reasons, but Ross seemed to be pretty definitive that the team did NOT have any positive COVID tests, which would of course include Heyward:
Ross: “we have had no positive COVID tests. I can tell you that.”
— Mark Gonzales (@MDGonzales) September 7, 2020
And while that’s reassuring it does leave that sprinkle of the unknown which is always a bit scarier and frustrating for everyone involved. Depending on how he feels and/or the results of the tests, I’m not expecting Heyward back tomorrow against the Reds, but given the way Ross said he had the “day off’ today, I suppose that remains a possibility.
Heyward has been truly excellent this season, slashing .300/.415/.540 (154 wRC+) through 35 games.
Meanwhile, injured Cubs starters Tyler Chatwood (forearm) and Jose Quintana (lat) are working their way back this week:
Ross: Tyler Chatwood resumed playing catch today. José Quintana is on target to resume his throwing program Tuesday.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) September 7, 2020
It remains difficult to imagine how available – let alone effective – they’ll be down the stretch, but we can hold out hope.
