The Cubs are already without Anthony Rizzo and Javy Báez tonight as they get a rest day for bumps and bruises, and now Jason Heyward is also out of the game. Rookie P.J. Higgins, just called up today, pinch hit for Heyward in the 4th, which was not a strategic move. Higgins stayed in the game to play first base, with Kris Bryant moving out to right field.
Heyward previously was dealing with a hand issue, and I’m not sure if this is the same situation or something else. As we’ve discussed before, he has frequently looked unnaturally slowed down out there in the field this season. We’ll update when there’s more information.
UPDATE: Maybe it’s a new issue, maybe it’s been lingering (which would explain some things). Regardless, tonight it was officially left hamstring tightness for Heyward:
Cubs: Jason Heyward exited with left hamstring tightness.
— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) May 20, 2021