Moises Ballesteros’ social media may hint at big Cubs roster shakeup

Following a weekend of no progress for Kyle Tucker and the calf injury that has kept him sidelined since last week, it seems that the Chicago Cubs may be making a roster move ahead of their game against the Atlanta Braves on Monday night. Moises Ballesteros shared a picture on Instagram that would suggest he is currently with the team in Atlanta.

Losing two of three games to the Washington Nationals over the weekend was likely proof for the Cubs that they can't continue to play with a shorthanded roster. It was bad enough that the Cubs were seemingly going out of their way not to place Tucker on the IL, but now, with Pete Crow-Armstrong also dealing with a bone bruise, the team has finally had its hand forced.

On Sunday, Craig Counsell seemed to sidestep the question of why Tucker has remained active despite not playing since last Tuesday.

“You make injury decisions every single day,” Counsell said. “From Kyle’s end, are we going to try to be on the cautious side of it? Yeah, we’re going to try to be on the cautious side of it. But when he’s ready to play, he’s ready to play. And then he’ll go out there and play.

Moises Ballesteros’ social media fuels rumors of long-awaited Cubs move

If Tucker is going on the IL, chances are the Cubs would make the move retroactive to last week. Tucker would then be eligible to come off the IL this upcoming weekend against the Tampa Bay Rays. That would provide a simple explanation for why Ballesteros would be the corresponding move instead of bringing back Owen Caissie. The Cubs could use Seiya Suzuki or Kevin Alcantara in right field, with Ballesteros potentially getting a look as the team's designated hitter. A worthwhile look, considering veteran Carlos Santana is hitless through his first 10 plate appearances with the team.

In his two abbreviated stints at the Major League level earlier this season, Ballesteros hasn't exactly been handed an opportunity to prove his bat is ready. With the Cubs' offense scuffling of late, the top prospect could provide a spark if Counsell allows him to play.

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