There may be some potential reinforcements on the horizon for the Cubs pitching staff, but unfortunately, Yency Almonte is not likely to be one of them. The right-handed reliever received a second opinion on his right shoulder strain and the news was not promising for his return to throwing, according to manager Craig Counsell. As a result, Almonte is now faced with a decision on whether to focus on strengthening his shoulder or consider a surgical option.
Counsell did not give a specific timeline for Almonte’s return, but with the shutdown from throwing in early July, it is anticipated that his recovery will be lengthy. Almonte originally sustained the injury at the start of May, just as he was establishing himself as a reliable reliever for the Cubs. Despite a rough start to the season, he had turned things around and was showing promise on the mound.
In June, Almonte attempted to return to action with a live bullpen session in South Bend, but unfortunately, he did not recover well enough to progress to a rehab assignment. The Cubs attempted to ease his recovery by having him participate in controlled bullpen sessions, but the injury persisted. The second opinion revealed that Almonte would need to take a break from throwing and rest before making a decision on his next steps.
It is disappointing news for Almonte and the Cubs, as the right-hander was proving himself to be a valuable asset to the team. With one more season under club control, the Cubs will be monitoring his recovery closely and hoping for a successful return to the mound in the future.