Cubs top pitching prospect Andrew Cashner had another setback in his recovery from a strained rotator cuff. Cashner was placed on the disabled list six weeks ago and all signs pointed to his recovery, until Monday when he felt discomfort while warming up in extended spring training.
‘‘I feel real bad for him,’’ general manager Jim Hendrysaid. ‘‘He’s worked real hard. His rehab’s gone really well up to this point. Obviously, the main goal will be just to continue to get it right so [he can] continue to have a bright future.’’
It must be incredibly frustrating for Cubs fans as another top prospect finds himself on the disabled list and the Cubs are keeping mostly mum on the subject once again. One source familiar with the situation believes Cashner will be shutdown for another two weeks before being reexamined. At that time, it will be decided whether he will go on a minor league rehab assignment.
It is apparent the Cubs need a bottom of the rotation starter, as the fill-ins for Cashner and Randy Wells have posted a 2-9 record and a 7.50 ERA. If these guys can't get healthy, they will need someone a lot more effective than the current combination they are working with to be in the conversation for the division, not to mention putting people in the seats.
Cubs fans are growing impatient.