Nico Hoerner injury may lead to Cubs turning to the son of a former rival

Chicago Cubs starting second baseman Nico Hoerner appeared as a pinch runner in Friday's loss to the Cincinnati Reds, but the overall outlook on his injury remains unclear.

Hoerner was hit by a pitch during the Cubs' victory over the Chicago White Sox on Wednesday, and the initial testing did not provide a definitive answer on whether the Gold Glove infielder is dealing with a fracture.

If further testing does confirm that Hoerner is dealing with a fracture, a lengthy IL trip may be in the immediate future.

Hoerner missing any amount of significant time would be a blow to a Cubs team that appears to be sinking after treading water through their struggles during the month of May. Considering that Nick Madrigal fractured his left hand during his first game with the Iowa Cubs this past week, the Cubs' infield depth will be tested if Hoerner is forced to miss time.

Beyond the need for a starting second baseman, Hoerner's injury would also leave the Cubs without a backup shortstop to Dansby Swanson.

While Miles Mastrobuoni and Luis Vázquez would be options to be promoted in the event that Hoerner is placed on the IL, the Cubs could turn to the son of a former rival to address the need.

Cubs could turn to son of former rival to address roster need

The Toronto Blue Jays designated utility infielder Cavan Biggio for assignment on Friday. Biggo, the son of former Houston Astros legend Craig Biggio, rates as a plus defender at second base while also having the ability to play third base, first base, right field, and left field.

Biggio would not be an answer to the Cubs' offensive needs, holding an OPS+ of 80 this season, but would be a more representative option for the team at the Major League level instead of Mastrobuoni or Vázquez.