Alex Bregman Avoids Injured List, Could Return

Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman is recovering faster than expected from facial fractures suffered when a foul ball struck him, and Chicago currently plans to keep him off the injured list. Bregman has resumed light baseball activities, including pitch-tracking work, while manager Craig Counsell said he could return before the regular season ends, though Jed Hoyer cautioned that his availability and role in the playoffs remain uncertain. The Cubs are monitoring whether Bregman can safely handle the demands of playing a full game, with Matt Shaw and Pedro Ramirez filling in during his absence. Hoyer also discussed the Cubs’ postseason outlook, Pete Crow-Armstrong’s standout season and potential pitching plans involving Justin Steele, who could return during the team’s upcoming series against Boston.