Yet Another Cubs Pitcher Is Dealing With An Injury

The Cubs just can't catch a break with injuries.

Joe Maddon has enough issues by himself managing the bullpen, but his options keep getting cut down each passing day. Craig Kimbrel's been out since Sept. 1, while Steve Cishek is struggling with his command and now another pitcher is dealing with an injury.

Right-hander Brandon Kintzler hasn't appeared in a game since last Tuesday in San Diego and he won't be pitching for the Cubs in the next few days either. After Monday's 8-2 win over the Reds, Maddon said Kintzler has a mild left oblique strain.

Kintzler has been one of the few consistent relievers for the Cubs since the beginning of the year. Yet, he has struggled on the road and maybe the injury has led to his September troubles, as Kintzler has allowed at least one run in three outings this month.

The right-hander has a 2.82 ERA this year and a 0.89 ERA in 30.1 innings at home. Back in August, Kintzler missed nearly two weeks because of a pec strain.

While the Cubs keep an eye on Kintzler's progress, they're also hopeful Kimbrel can return by the end of this week. He's going to throw to hitters in a simulated setting on Tuesday and if all goes well, Maddon said he won't rule out the closer coming back against the Cardinals.

We'll see.

The Cubs are already without Javier Báez for the rest of the regular season and Anthony Rizzo is unlikely to come back before the season ends as well after suffering a sprained ankle on Sunday.