Cubs have potential postseason 'nightmare' that doesn't include Alex Bregman

1 month ago 21

The Chicago Cubs are hoping for the best with third baseman Alex Bregman.

Standing on the on-deck circle, Bregman was hit in the face by a foul ball during Sunday's game against the Cincinnati Reds.

It's unclear how long Bregman will need to recover from the injury, but he shared photos on social media after he underwent X-rays and CT scans.

However, a potential Bregman absence may not be Chicago's most glaring postseason issue, Bleacher Report's Kerry Miller wrote.

Instead, the Cubs should be worried about a bullpen that does not have a lockdown closer.

"The real nightmare here is the bullpen/closer situation, as only bulk relievers Aaron Civale and Javier Assad seem to be capable of recording outs as of late," Miller wrote.

"In particular, former closer Jacob Webb has completely lost his touch with a 12.91 ERA, four blown saves and no successful saves in his past nine appearances," he added.

Right-hander Daniel Palencia has had strong outings out of Chicago's bullpen recently.

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The flamethrower has not allowed an earned run in his last six appearances. The Cubs could opt to use him in the closer's role, a spot he's familiar with.

Even with one of the best offenses in baseball, the Cubs should be concerned with how they'll consistently hold slim leads.

It may take an extraordinary offensive effort from guys like Pete Crow-Armstrong, Seiya Suzuki, and Ian Happ to keep the Cubs scoring in bunches.