Bryant not in lineup, but says wrist feels good
Cubs manager David Ross got a couple of new arrivals into Wednesday's lineup. Newcomer Cameron Maybin started in right field and Steven Souza Jr., fresh off the injured list, was in left.
Kris Bryant was not in the lineup after returning from a left wrist injury on Tuesday. Bryant said he was feeling fine, but Ross didn't want to push the comeback.
"I told him he wasn't playing and he tried to fight back and said he was fine," Ross said with a laugh before the game. "We've got a lot of games coming up, 14 in 13 days. As the game played out, diving for a couple balls, scoring from first on a double. I know that wiped him out pretty good."
Bryant was sidelined for a total of two weeks, making his previous appearance on Aug. 17 in a doubleheader against St. Louis.
"I feel fine. I felt ready to go, but Rossy was adamant that I have a normal rehab buildup," Bryant said. "I felt great yesterday. I was seeing the ball good."
Ross said it was as much about the long day Tuesday as it was being careful with Bryant. The Cubs flew to Pittsburgh from Chicago in the morning, then played an extra-inning, rain-delayed game.
"That's a long game and a long day yesterday," Ross said. "I think it's important that we take of these guys. When I feel tired and don't have to do anything physically, I know it's a long day."