While the Chicago Cubs avoided a crippling blow after third baseman Kris Bryant injured his hand on a head-first slide into third base on Wednesday against the Atlanta Braves, the team now believes the injury could keep him out for the rest of the weekend series against the St. Louis Cardinals. MLB.com's Carrie Muskat first reported the news on Bryant's status.
Bryant's head first slide, which saw his finger get caught on the cleats of Atlanta's third baseman Johan Camargo and get pulled back, led to his immediate exit form the game and slow-mo replays raised immediate concerns amongst Chicago fans and front office officials of a potentially season-changing injury.
Tests revealed Bryant avoided any significant injury and the team ruled him day-to-day, which now has expanded into the weekend. Given Bryant can't grip the bat presently, it stands to reason fantasy owners can expect him to be out for the remainder of the fantasy week. It's the smart play for Chicago, given how much Bryant means to that team and further damage to the finger could severely damage Chicago's season.
Javier Baez and Tommy La Stella should both see added playing time during the weekend. Bryant's absence could also open the door briefly for Baez and Addison Russell to play together, which has not been the norm this season. Baez is worth a DFS play over the weekend given his hot streak at the plate. When Bryant returns, Baez should continue to see semi-regular playing time, while La Stella will return to a bench role.