One of the biggest questions the Chicago Cubs are facing during Spring Training is who will emerge as their starting third baseman.
There are currently three players in the running between Patrick Wisdom, Nick Madrigal and Christopher Morel.
In an ideal world, it would be Morel who shows improved defense and is able to completely take over that role for the 2024 season and beyond.
His bat must be kept in the Cubs' lineup after the breakout year he had in 2023, and with them wanting to keep the designated hitter spot fluid, they would love for his defense to be playable.
One player who may have suffered a set back in this battle is Madrigal.
Tony Andracki of Marquee Sports Network reported that he left the Spring Training game on March 4 with a cramp in his right leg.
On the surface, this is not a big deal.
Players are getting used to competing in live games again and their bodies are adapting to this environment.
However, for someone who has dealt with leg injuries throughout his career, including two separate stints on the injured list with a groin strain and hamstring strain last year, this is not a great sign.
Chicago doesn't want to have a rotating group of players at third base once again.
They want someone who can man that position everyday and get a few games off here and there over the course of the season.
If Madrigal wins the job out of camp, they have to be concerned that he will miss time at some point in the year because that's been his history.
Again, this is only a cramp and is not a major injury, but it's still a red flag for someone competing to win the starting third baseman job.
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