Cubs: Suzuki Returning to Chicago, Smyly to Start in South Bend

The Chicago Cubs received encouraging news on the injury front Sunday morning. Despite Alec Mills heading to the IL, a pair of notable names look close to returning for the Cubs. According to Marquee Sports Network’s Taylor McGregor, Seiya Suzuki is returning to Chicago and Drew Smyly will start in South Bend on Monday.

Seiya Suzuki

After just three games and nine at-bats with Triple-A Iowa, Suzuki is reportedly heading back to Chicago. Ideally, a July 4 activation is in the cards for Suzuki as the Cubs open a series with the Milwaukee Brewers. In three games with the Iowa Cubs, Suzuki had four hits including a pair of doubles and a home run. He also added two runs scored and three RBI.

Suzuki has been on the IL since suffering a finger sprain against the Cincinnati Reds. After missing roughly a month, it appears he is ready to return to the Cubs. Although the Cubs have won seven of their last 10 games, having Suzuki’s presence in the lineup will be welcomed.

Drew Smyly’s Start

After exiting his start against the Milwaukee Brewers on May 30, Drew Smyly was sent to the IL to nurse an oblique injury. However, it appears the veteran lefty is nearing a return. As Taylor McGregor indicated, Smyly will start for High-A South Bend on Monday to test that oblique for the first time in game action.

Ideally, Smyly may need more than one start before returning from the IL. The Cubs have managed without the left-hander, but his return will bring a sense of consistency to the rotation. Both Smyly and Marcus Stroman threw bullpens last week, but it appears Smyly is potentially closer to a return. That said, the Cubs may believe that Stroman won’t need a rehab start before his activation.

Nonetheless, a start with South Bend for Smyly is an encouraging sign for a beat up Cubs team.

What’s On Tap Next?

The Cubs conclude their series with the Boston Red Sox on Sunday before venturing to Milwaukee for three games. The Cubs look for the sweep against the Red Sox and to take their momentum into the series with their division rival.

Follow On Tap Sports Net on social media!

Please leave this field empty

Sign up to receive awesome content like this right in your inbox, from On Tap Sports Net.

Email Address *

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

Ron Luce

Work as an accountant by day. Huge Chicago sports fan. Played college football and only wish I could skate well enough to play hockey. Twitter: @rnldluce Instagram: @rnldluce