Cubs' Bregman Eyes Regular-Season Return After Foul Ball Fractures Face

Alex Bregman worked out Tuesday after suffering multiple facial fractures when a foul ball struck him Sunday, and the Cubs have not ruled out a return this season.

Chicago Cubs third baseman Alex Bregman may play again before the regular season ends after he suffered multiple facial fractures when a foul ball struck the left side of his face during Sunday's game in Cincinnati.

Manager Craig Counsell said Tuesday that Bregman did a light weight-room workout and tracked pitches from a machine in a batting cage. The team has no plans to put him on the injured list, though Counsell noted Bregman still has significant swelling in his face and eye that needs to improve.

The injury occurred in the fourth inning of a 9-1 win over the Reds when Bregman, standing on deck, was hit by Michael Busch's check-swing foul ball. He left the field with an athletic trainer. President of baseball operations Jed Hoyer said the initial fear was a worst-case scenario, but subsequent doctor visits have brought positive news.

Counsell said Bregman intends to play and will increase his activity as long as symptoms do not return. Pedro Ramírez started at third base Tuesday against Miami, with Matt Shaw also available to fill in.

Bregman, 32, is batting .262 with 26 home runs and 89 RBIs in his first season with Chicago after signing a five-year, $175 million contract. He has hit .305 with 17 homers and 48 RBIs over his last 57 games.