Chicago Cubs Manager Concerned With Third Baseman's Injury

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell is concerned about one of the team's top hitters' injury.

Chicago Cubs slugger Patrick Wisdom was scheduled to return to the lineup on Tuesday but missed another game as his back continues to be an issue. 

Wisdom is now on track to potentially miss Opening Day, a concerning sign before the year starts.

The 32-year-old has been a big piece of the Cubs' lineup in recent seasons, hitting more than 23 home runs in each of the last three years. At his best, he can be someone who hits 30-plus home runs in a season.

Wisdom hasn't played since March 13 and has 16 at-bats this Spring Training. He's expected to see a doctor and Chicago will go from there, per Mark Feinsand of MLB.com. 

Skipper Craig Counsell doesn't seem too encouraged about the injury, having the following to say, according to Feinsand.

"Not really sure what's going to happen next, but obviously, it's concerning that we had to stop today."

He added that Wisdom got going earlier in the day and didn't feel great, leading to the team deciding to scratch him.

Baseball Reference predicts Wisdom to post a .220/.303/.465 slash line with 23 home runs and 56 RBIs, the type of production that could help this lineup.

Wisdom is projected to play off the bench, according to Jordan Bastian of MLB.com. Bastian writes that Wisdom brings a right-handed power bat and can play the corner infield and outfield positions.

Despite him likely coming off the bench, Wisdom will probably see a good amount of playing time. He gives the Cubs versatility in multiple positions and is one of the best hitters on the team.

For a lineup that's already lacking firepower, losing the slugger for an extended period of time would be a tough blow.