Due to injury, Chicago Cubs infielder Nico Hoerner will miss the Tokyo Series opener in March.
On Friday, ESPN reported, citing Cubs manager Craig Counsell, that Hoerner will not participate in the Tokyo Series.
Hoerner, a first-round draft pick in 2018, has spent his entire professional career with the Cubs.
Before the 2023 season, Hoerner signed a three-year, $35 million extension with the Cubs and earned a Gold Glove as a second baseman that year, proving his defensive skills.
However, after the 2024 season ended in October, he underwent surgery on the flexor tendon in his right elbow.
Aiming for a return this April, Hoerner has decided to skip the Tokyo Series and remain in the U.S. to focus on rehabilitation.
Counsell expressed regret over Hoerner’s absence from the Tokyo Series. Still, he noted that his condition is steadily improving. He added that Hoerner will stay in Arizona to prepare for minor league games.