April 14--The Chicago Cubs adjusted their starting lineup 90 minutes before Monday night's game against the Cincinnati Reds, and they could make a significant roster move if their health doesn't improve.
Mike Olt was scratched because of a sore right wrist, and Tommy La Stella hasn't played since Wednesday because of a sore right side that will limited to pinch-hitting duty, at best.
If the discomfort in Olt's hand doesn't improve and La Stella is destined for the 15-day disabled list, there's the possibility that the Cubs could promote top prospect Kris Bryant from Triple-A Iowa.
"Maybe," President Theo Epstein said. "We'll see. We'll weigh all the factors. I said during spring training that his performance obviously last year and even during spring training showed that he's really close, and that we're probably more likely to get him sooner rather than later.
"They just started, though. We're trying to get him into a good rhythm down there. But we'll see. Obviously his development is a hugely important factor and the needs of the big league team as well."
Bryant, who has hit home runs in his past two games for Iowa but was sent to the minors despite hitting .425 with nine home runs in 40 at-bats this spring, has yet to play the outfield.
But Epstein didn't seem sure if it was a priority right now as Bryant continues to work at third base.
"It depends on the circumstances," Epstein said of the possible prerequisite.
The Cubs could wait as long as Friday before making a decision, since Bryant wouldn't be eligible for free agency until after 2021 if he's not promoted to the majors before then.
Second baseman Arismendy Alcantara will move to the sixth spot, with Jonathan Herrera taking over at third base for Olt against the Reds' Mike Leake.
