Chicago Cubs: Almora battling injury; Cubs asking a lot from Lackey

Albert Almora Jr. is battling a lingering calf injury, John Lackey is a linchpin for the Chicago Cubs rotation and Anthony Rizzo battled Team Italy Tuesday in Arizona.

After clubbing a grand slam Sunday, Chicago Cubs’ rookie Albert Almora Jr. is battling a lingering left calf injury. The defensive standout fouled a pitch off his leg early last week and has had issues since.

The injury is not expected to sideline Almora long-term. Still, it highlights the importance of the Cubs’ depth in the outfield heading into the season.

First baseman Anthony Rizzo squared off with his team against Team Italy Tuesday. After previously stating he would play for his home country, Rizzo decided to focus on the upcoming campaign. Looking to repeat as World Series champions appears to be his top priority.

In a back-and-forth battle, Italy topped the Cubs Tuesday 8-7. Veteran John Lackey tossed two scoreless innings, allowing one hit in the loss. The right-hander will play a critical role for Chicago this season. A career-long work horse, John Lackey needs one more solid season before riding off into the proverbial sunset.

Cubs president of baseball operations Theo Epstein will give an address at his Alma Matter, Yale University this spring. After breaking curses in Boston and Chicago, he ranks as one of the most well-known alumni in recent memory.

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More from Cubs Spring Training

• MLB anti-hazing policies won’t slow Maddon, Cubs 
• Rotation needs Lackey to step up one last time
• Cubs’ Almora battling calf injury 
• Chicago falls to Team Italy despite Lackey’s effort
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