Two Cubs relievers will be delayed in participating in spring training, Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer announced Tuesday.
Right-hander Rowan Wick, who landed on the injured list in September, is still dealing with an intercostal injury, according to Hoyer.
“He’ll probably be a little slower than some guys,” Hoyer said.
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Lefty Kyle Ryan is expected to begin spring training on the COVID-19 related list, according to Hoyer. With the first workout for Cubs pitchers and catchers scheduled for Wednesday, the rest of the group is penciled in to begin on time. But as MLB prepares to launch Spring Training during the coronavirus pandemic for the first time, the situation remains fluid.
“There’s going to be a lot of delays with these protocols,” Hoyer said.
According to Hoyer, players who have already contracted COVID-19 and recovered may have to undergo extensive cardiology tests. The labs have also seen an influx of COVID-19 diagnostic tests in recent days.
“I don’t expect us to be really working out with our full complement of pitchers right away, and I think every team in the valley is probably going to be dealing with that,” Hoyer said. “And I would expect the same things to happen when the position players report.”
MLB
Bullpen reinforcement, at least, is on its way. Hoyer said the major league signing of another reliever will likely soon become official.