Cubs News: Ben Zobrist signs autographs, takes batting practice at Wrigley Field |
CHICAGO — Fan favorite
Ben Zobrist returned to the Chicago Cubs on Sunday after a leave of absence that spanned nearly four months. Zobrist was activated off the restricted list and added to the active roster prior to Sunday's contest at Wrigley Field between the Cubs and the Milwaukee Brewers.
While Zobrist was not in the starting lineup for Sunday's game, he is eligible to come off the bench and take part in the matchup. Cubs manager Joe Maddon told the press that Zobrist will also not start in Monday's game and will instead be eased back into the rotation after not suiting up for the North Siders since May 7. Zobrist was present at the Friendly Confines before Sunday's game, though, as he posed for pictures and signed autographs for a sizable group of adoring fans and also took part in his first batting practice with the Cubs since he began his leave of absence. The veteran utility man recently completed a month-long rehab stint in the minor leagues. Every single kid got a @benzobrist18 autograph. #KidsSundays #EverybodyIn pic.twitter.com/DRwKzIFmd1 Ben Zobrist signs autographs and poses for pictures on his first day back with the Cubs. https://t.co/wnOCuHiuDj pic.twitter.com/GJzaJx2VtH Ben Zobrist doing what he does best. Being a good guy. Received a big ovation from fans as he walked into the dugout. #Cubs pic.twitter.com/eB82zl6dGQ Cubs batting practice, including Ben Zobrist. https://t.co/yCmd9xXgIT Ben Zobrist takes some BP. #Cubs pic.twitter.com/ALzO3dogzW Cameras also captured Zobrist fielding ground balls and getting in some swings on Saturday evening in anticipation of his Cubs return. After dealing with an emotional personal matter pertaining to his marriage, Zobrist is assuredly happy to be back playing the game that he loves, and Cubs fans are definitely happy about it, too. Ben Zobrist is here at Wrigley taking grounders. At some point today, Cubs need to add him to the 40-man roster. Will be added to active roster Sunday. pic.twitter.com/iUseuvscKP Enjoy the soothing sounds of Zobrist taking BP in an empty Wrigley Field with the train in the distance. And then less soothing: honking and sirens. pic.twitter.com/4sDJXEsTCA
