According to multiple reports on Tuesday morning, Scott Baker has been shut down and his throwing program has been suspended until he is able to meet with the Cubs’ physician. The team has termed it a “setback” for Scott Baker and will not have a timetable on a possible return until after he meets with the doctor.
According to multiple reports, Ian Stewart will start the season on the disabled list. Stewart has not been able to run and felt discomfort following his appearance in a minor league game last Thursday.
According to a report from Carrie Muskat, Ian Stewart has a pocket of fluid in his left quad. Stewart has not been able to run or move side to side while fielding.
With the team announcing that Stewart will begin the year on the DL, the Cubs will pay Stewart’s entire $2 million salary for the 2013 season.
With Stewart out, Brent Lillibridge will be on the Cubs’ Opening Day roster. If the team does not place Stewart on the 60-day DL, a roster spot can be created by placing Arodys Vizcaino on the 60-day DL. The Cubs’ 40-man roster currently stands at 40 players. Any non-roster invitee to big league camp will have to be added to the roster in order to be with the team on Opening Day.
The MRI on Scott Baker revealed inflammation in his elbow. Baker will be examined this weekend by team doctors.