CHICAGO (AP) – The Chicago Cubs have recalled outfielder Kevin Alcántara from Triple-A Iowa prior to their game against the Houston Astros on Saturday, while designating infielder Nicky Lopez for assignment.
In a bid to end their six-game losing streak, the Cubs left four-time Gold Glove left fielder Ian Happ out of the lineup, opting for Michael Conforto instead. Following a promising start with a 20-3 run earlier in the season, the Cubs now hold a 2-10 record.
Alcántara’s Performance and Potential
The 23-year-old Alcántara has shown impressive performance at Iowa, batting .242 with 15 home runs and 32 RBIs, along with a .906 OPS across 41 games. His 15 home runs rank among the highest for Triple-A players as of Saturday.
During previous call-ups, Alcántara participated in 13 games with the Cubs, achieving a .238 batting average and one RBI in 22 plate appearances.
Lopez’s Brief Tenure and Team Struggles
Nicky Lopez, acquired from Colorado on April 23, had a brief stint with the Cubs, going 0-for-5 in four games. The team’s recent struggles have been evident, scoring only 18 runs during their losing streak.
Happ, in his 10th season, has faced difficulties at the plate, managing just one hit and two walks in his last six games, while striking out 14 times in 26 plate appearances.
Manager’s Insight on Team Changes
Manager Craig Counsell addressed the situation, stating, “I think the thing from yesterday is we just need to give Ian a break. And look, we’ve got a lot of guys not hitting. That’s kind of why we’re in the middle of this right?”
He acknowledged that Happ is feeling the pressure the most, which influenced the decision to rest him. Counsell expressed confidence in Alcántara’s role, noting, “Kevin’s on the roster. You know there are spots to get him in there.”