MESA, Ariz. – A promising start to spring training for the Chicago Cubs has been tempered by news of an injury to veteran infielder Tyler Austin. The 34-year-old underwent a surgical procedure Tuesday to address a patellar tendon issue in his right knee and is expected to be sidelined for months, manager Craig Counsell announced Wednesday. The injury throws the Cubs’ plans for their bench into flux as they prepare for the 2026 season.
Austin, who signed a one-year, $1.25 million contract in December, was viewed as a potential backup to first baseman Michael Busch. His experience playing multiple positions – including first base and the outfield – added to his value. Counsell acknowledged that Austin was “having an inside track” to a roster spot, but that is now uncertain. The injury history of Austin’s knee was likewise noted by Counsell, suggesting this was a pre-existing concern.
The timing of the injury is particularly challenging as the Cubs evaluate their roster options. Austin spent the last six seasons playing for the Yokohama DeNA BayStars in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball league, where he demonstrated significant offensive improvement, slashing .280/.363/.502 with 12 home runs and 31 RBIs in 72 games. His performance overseas had generated optimism about his potential contribution to the Cubs this season.
With Austin unavailable, the Cubs will need to reassess their depth chart. Several players are now in contention for a spot on the bench, including Jonathon Long and Moises Ballesteros. Miguel Amaya, who has minor league experience at first base (36 starts), is also a possibility. Matt Shaw, recently added to the roster, is expected to begin taking reps at first base during spring training to increase his versatility, according to Counsell.
“You’ve got to go through this exercise in spring training of backup plans on top of backup plans,” Counsell said. “This may change where we are highly deep to a place we’re not very deep.” He emphasized the importance of having players who can fill multiple roles, noting that even catchers could be called upon to play first base in an emergency.
The Cubs are also monitoring the health of left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks, who is currently sidelined with left forearm inflammation. An MRI ruled out any damage to his ulnar collateral ligament, and Wicks has responded well to rest over the past five days. Counsell anticipates Wicks will be sidelined for days, rather than weeks, and hopes he will be able to resume throwing shortly. Wicks was hoping to earn a spot on the opening-day roster, either as a starter or reliever.
On the pitching front, Jameson Taillon is continuing to refine his pitching mechanics as he prepares for the World Baseball Classic. Taillon, who is slated to pitch for Team Canada, is working on the shape of his cutter, aiming for tighter movement and greater velocity separation from his sweeper. He is scheduled for one more Cactus League start before joining Team Canada in Puerto Rico. Taillon has not yet discussed whether he will remain with Team Canada should they advance deep into the tournament, prioritizing his availability and peak performance for the Cubs’ season.
The Cubs face a series of roster decisions as they navigate these injuries and prepare for the upcoming season. The loss of Austin, a player who could have provided valuable versatility, underscores the importance of depth and adaptability. The team will continue to evaluate its options throughout spring training, seeking to build a roster capable of contending in a competitive National League.
The Cubs will provide further updates on Austin’s recovery timeline as they become available. Fans can find the latest information on the team’s official website and social media channels.
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