Chicago Cubs News: Wood’s injury; Week 1 reports

Former Chicago Cubs’ pitcher Travis Wood is done for the year, and possibly his career. He suffered an ACL tear which tends to keep players out for the year. If this is is for Wood, we can’t help but remember the good times in Chicago.

As a Chicago Cubs‘ fan, I was pretty disappointed to see Travis Wood‘s injury. While he’s struggled since leaving Chicago, you can’t help but like the guy. But after tearing his ACL and meniscus at 31, Wood has to figure out if he still wants to pitch. The injury is likely to keep him out all or most of the season. Detroit has yet to say how long he’ll be out, or what he plans to do for treatment. But Wood had a good run in Chicago, and that’s what we’ll remember.

As we look back at the first week of spring training, the Cubs fared pretty well. While the win/loss record is hardly an indication of what the regular season will bring, it’s a good start. In looking at the hitters, there are a few surprises in the mix. Mike Freeman continues to have a solid spring, which is good news if the Cubs might need to call on him again. David Bote is another that’s making the coaches take notice. While it’s unlikely that he’ll have a roster spot, he’s off to a good start this spring.

On the pitching side, Dario Alvarez is one of the guys battling for a roster spot. Likely going up against Justin Grimm and Shae Simmons, Alvarez has the talent to claim the spot. He just has to throw strikes. In another cautionary tale, Brian Duensing has struggled a bit this spring. But I remind you that he did this last year, as well. And he turned in a good year. So let’s not overanalyze this yet. Starters have looked good in their starts, and that’s really about all you can ask right now.

These stories and more you might have missed:

‘Reflecting on Wood’s legacy as a Cub’ – Cubbies Crib

‘A look at Week 1 spring training’ – Cubbies Crib

‘Players that could be summer trade bait‘ – MLB.com

‘Lester using new throwing approach’ – MLB.com

‘How MLB’s young superstars can get better’ – ESPN

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