Cubs announce Kyle Schwarber has not been medically cleared to play in the field
The Cubs worked out at Wrigley Field on Thursday afternoon, as scheduled. Kyle Schwarber participated in the workout and took batting practice. Schwarber went to the outfield with his teammates but did not take any fly balls.
Theo Epstein addressed Schwarber’s status after practice. Doctors did not clear Schwarber to play in the field. Schwarber will be used as a pinch-hitter for the next three games.
Schwarber has been ruled out of the starting lineup for the games at Wrigley. Schwarber will be available off the bench to pinch-hit.
Epstein said the doctors indicated Schwarber is not ready to make quick movements necessary to play the outfield.
“Dynamic actions” in the outfield were too much for the doctors to give their blessing. Epstein explained there is just too much risk involved with Schwarber playing in the outfield right now.
The Cubs have to look out for Schwarber’s best interests and do what is best for the team. Schwarber is not ready to play in the field.