Chicago Cubs reliever Ethan Roberts exited Wednesday afternoon’s game against the host Pittsburgh Pirates in the fourth inning due to an apparent injury.
Roberts came off the field with a trainer after allowing Yasmani Grandal’s single with no outs in the fourth. Prior to Grandal’s base hit, Roberts had served up a solo home run by Connor Joe before hitting Billy McKinney with a pitch to open the frame.
With Chicago starter Kyle Hendricks lasting just 1 2/3 innings after giving up six runs on eight hits and three walks, Cubs manager Craig Counsell was forced to turn to Roberts in the second inning. He retired the final batter of the inning, then got the side in order in the third inning before being pulled. Roberts yielded two runs and three hits, walking one and striking out one.
The Cubs trailed 7-3 at the time of Roberts’ departure. Left-hander Drew Smyly took over on the mound.
Roberts, 27, entered Wednesday with a 2.08 ERA in nine relief appearances over 13 innings this season. He has yet to factor into a decision.