# Cubs Play It Safe With Bregman as DH

> Cubs manager Craig Counsell keeps Alex Bregman in DH role for Wild Card Series after facial fractures.
- Title: Cubs Play It Safe With Bregman as DH · Mlb | Shortify
- Summary: Cubs manager Craig Counsell keeps Alex Bregman in DH role for Wild Card Series after facial fractures. Cubs manager Craig Counsell chose Alex Bregman as…
- Keywords: cubs, alex bregman, designated hitter, wild card series, national league, facial fractures, craig counsell, sports, Play, Safe, Bregman, Mlb
- Source: Mlb — https://mlb.com/news/cubs-2026-nl-wild-card-series-roster
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: cubs, alex bregman, designated hitter, wild card series, national league, facial fractures, craig counsell, sports
## Cubs Roster Revealed
Cubs manager Craig Counsell confirmed their National League Wild Card Series roster with no major changes.
## Bregman's Injury Status
Alex Bregman sustained multiple facial fractures in his left cheek after being hit by a foul ball on Sept 20 in Cincinnati.
## Counsell's Decision
Counsell opted to use Bregman as designated hitter for Game 1 to prioritize his recovery from facial fractures.

> Ultimately, I played it safe, I’ll be honest with you.
## Bregman's Recovery Progress
Bregman took grounders in workouts at Tropicana Field and Petco Park, showing improved comfort on the field.
## Bregman's Performance
Bregman went 0-for-4 in Boston but hit 4-for-4 with two homers in the regular-season finale against the Red Sox.
## Team Reaction
Teammates praised Bregman's return, noting he makes their lineup better despite his injury.

> Alex Bregman makes our lineup better. So, it’s huge that he’s getting himself game ready.
## Key takeaway

Cubs manager Craig Counsell chose Alex Bregman as designated hitter for Game 1 of the Wild Card Series to prioritize his recovery from facial fractures.