Addison Russell Injury: Updates on Cubs Star's Hamstring and Return

The Chicago Cubs are in the middle of a heated National League Divisional Series against the St. Louis Cardinals, but they lost their starting shortstop, Addison Russell, to a hamstring injury in Game 3.Continue for updates.Javier Baez Replaces RussellMonday, Oct. 12According to Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports, Russell hurt himself "sliding somewhat awkwardly" into third base on a triple in the fourth inning.The team said the shortstop was removed for tightness in his left hamstring.The slide was headfirst, and Bob Nightengale ofUSA Todaycalled Russell's injury "a huge blow" for the Cubs.Baez, who hit .289 with a .408 slugging percentage in limited action this season, took over for Russell. While Baez is a capable replacement, this is a serious setback for Chicago if Russell is out for extended time in this series.Not only is he the anchor of the team's infield defense at shortstop, but he also has a sparkling future ahead of him at only 21 years old.Russell is a sure-handed fielder who covers plenty of ground and routinely turns in spectacular plays behind his pitchers. He posted 10 total defensive runs saved above average at shortstop and nine at second base this season, according to FanGraphs.He took over the starting shortstop role from Starlin Castro during the season largely because of that stellar defense.Russell also mixes in occasional power and solid speed at the plate and hit 13 home runs in 142 games during his rookie season.While Russells presence in the field and lineup is critical for Chicagos potential long-term success in the playoffs, manager Joe Maddon does have some pieces to fill the void. Castro was the starting shortstop on Opening Day and for the first half of the season, and Baez is a highly regarded prospect with power potential.Chris Coghlan proved he is capable of handling second base on a regular basis earlier this season when he switched there from the outfield to accommodate Russells move to short. He is a high-contact hitter who adds a left-handed threat to the lineup and solid power and can play second if Castro is at short.Maddon also has Tommy La Stella at his disposal as a versatile option who can play nearly anywhere in the infield. Baez has experience at shortstop, and La Stella can cover secondwhich gives Chicago additional mix-and-match options in the lineup without Russell.Between Castro, Baez, La Stella and Coghlan in the middle infield, the Cubs should have enough to remain afloat without Russell for the short term. Still, the rookie is a major part of the winning equation on the North Side, and his team will be much better off in the field and at the dish when he returns.
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