Cubs Reliever Colten Brewer Fractures Hand After Punching Dugout Wall in Frustration

Chicago Cubs reliever Colten Brewer has been placed on the 60-day injured list after fracturing his non-pitching hand by punching a dugout wall in frustration following a poor outing on Saturday.

Chicago Cubs reliever Colten Brewer is facing an extended absence from the mound after suffering a fractured non-pitching hand in a moment of frustration. The incident occurred on Saturday during a game against the Los Angeles Angels, where Brewer was pulled from the game in the third inning after allowing three runs on two hits and two walks.

As Jorge Lopez replaced him on the mound, Brewer walked into the Chicago dugout and punched the wall out of frustration. The Marquee Sports Network reported that Brewer broke his nonpitching hand in the incident.

Cubs Reliever Colten Brewer Fractures Hand After Punching Dugout Wall in Frustration

The Cubs have since placed Brewer on the 60-day injured list and have selected the contract of Hunter Bigge to take his spot on the roster. Brewer's injury is a reminder of the potential consequences of uncontrolled emotions in the heat of competition.

In 2004, New York Yankees pitcher Kevin Brown missed time after punching a wall in the team's clubhouse, breaking two bones in his non-pitching hand. Similar incidents have occurred in various sports, with athletes taking out their frustrations on coolers, water jugs, and other objects.

Cubs Reliever Colten Brewer Fractures Hand After Punching Dugout Wall in Frustration

While expressing anger is understandable in competitive environments, it's crucial to find healthier ways to channel those emotions. Baseball players often resort to throwing sunflower seeds, gum, or even baseball bats to release their frustrations.

Brewer's injury serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of controlling one's emotions, especially when physical objects are involved. The right-hander has endured a difficult 2024 campaign for the Cubs, posting a 5.66 ERA over 16 games while allowing 13 earned runs over 20.2 innings pitched.

Cubs Reliever Colten Brewer Fractures Hand After Punching Dugout Wall in Frustration

Brewer's absence will be a blow to the Cubs' bullpen, which has struggled at times this season. The team will hope that Brewer makes a full recovery and returns to the mound soon, but they will need to find a reliable replacement in the meantime.

Hunter Bigge, who was called up to take Brewer's place, has experience in the major leagues, having made eight appearances for the Kansas City Royals in 2023. He will be expected to provide innings out of the bullpen and help stabilize the Cubs' pitching staff.

Brewer's injury is a reminder that even in the intense and competitive world of professional sports, it's essential to maintain composure and avoid actions that could lead to unnecessary harm.