Chicago Cubs: Addison Russell situation has big-time roster implications

Accusations made against Addison Russell have sent shockwaves through the Chicago Cubs. Both in the short and long-term, there are decisions to make.

At least for the time being, the Chicago Cubs will look to mix and match to fill the void at shortstop. But, then again, it’s hard to call it much of a void given you’ve got Daniel Murphy, Ben Zobrist, David Bote and Javier Baez available to man the middle infield.

Add Mike Freeman to the mix, as well. The Cubs called called up the infielder yesterday to replace Russell on the active roster. For the rest of the regular season, he gives the Cubs a good defensive middle infielder. However, Freeman isn’t much of a hitter. It’s pretty much a guarantee he won’t make any potential postseason roster.

Last year, Freeman played in 15 games with Chicago. In 27 plate appearances, he picked up just four hits and a pair of walks (.160/.222/.240). Until yesterday, Freeman spent all of this season in Triple-A Iowa, where he played in 78 games. He hit .274/.330/.396.

But Freeman hasn’t played in a game since Iowa’s season ended at the beginning of the month. He had been working out with Clemson near his home. His wife is expecting their first child around Oct. 1.