Bregman Could Return Before Season's End After Foul Ball Fractures Face

The Cubs third baseman avoided the injured list and was back taking batting practice two days after being struck by a foul ball in Cincinnati.

Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman fractured multiple bones in his face when a foul ball caught him during Sunday's contest with the Cincinnati Reds. The play happened in the fourth inning as Bregman waited in the on-deck circle. First baseman Michael Busch swung at a pitch, and the deflected ball struck Bregman, who left the game and went to a hospital for imaging to determine the extent of the damage.

Before Tuesday's matchup with the Miami Marlins, manager Craig Counsell told reporters that Bregman will not be placed on the injured list and could be back on the field before the regular season wraps up. Just two days after the incident, the veteran was already participating in batting practice while wearing a helmet. Bregman had posted photos of the injury showing considerable swelling, which raised concern among fans with the MLB postseason approaching.

Chicago signed Bregman to a five-year, $175 million contract this offseason, banking on his experience and leadership as much as his production. He won a World Series with Houston and helped Boston reach the playoffs last year. NL MVP frontrunner Pete Crow-Armstrong has publicly credited Bregman for supporting him throughout this season. The Cubs are close to clinching a postseason berth, and having Bregman available figures to strengthen their October outlook.