Crow-Armstrong Returns; Cubs Still Eye Outfield Depth

Chicago Cubs All-Star center fielder Pete Crow-Armstrong missed Monday's game against the Kansas City Royals due to a bruised right knee but returned to the lineup on Tuesday after manager Craig Counsell described the injury as minor. Seiya Suzuki made his first major league start in center field during Crow-Armstrong's absence, though the Cubs do not view Suzuki as a long-term option at the position. The team is considering adding center field depth ahead of the July 31 trade deadline to strengthen their playoff chances. Crow-Armstrong, an MVP candidate, remains a key contributor both offensively and defensively. The Cubs have experienced relatively good health among position players but are also monitoring the recoveries of other injured players, including Javier Assad and Jameson Taillon. These factors are influencing the team's approach to roster moves as the trade deadline approaches.