Cubs trying to protect cancer survivor Anthony Rizzo from COVID-19 risks

The Chicago Cubs are looking to take extra measures to protect their first baseman

Upon agreeing to the 60-game season, MLB was under the proverbial microscope in terms of how they’d effectively play out their campaign despite the lack of a bubble environment. Skeptics of the plan turned out to be right, as 11 members of the Miami Marlins tested positive for the coronavirus over the weekend, resulting in the cancellation of two games on Monday.

With this bombshell announcement, every team is on high alert. For the Chicago Cubs, they’re looking to do whatever it takes to protect first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who battled Hodgkin’s lymphoma early on in his career. They’re concerned about their next opponents, the Cincinnati Reds.

According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the Cubs have discussed having Rizzo or opposing base runners wear masks when reaching first base.

Cubs wary heading into NL Central series

These discussions are taking place because the Cubs are heading to Great American Ballpark to face the Reds on Monday. On Saturday, infielder Matt Davidson tested positive for COVID-19. On Sunday, the Reds scratched players Mike Moustakas and Nick Senzel after the two told the team that they weren’t feeling well the day of their game against the Detroit Tigers.

Having Rizzo, fellow first baseman Joey Votto and Reds baserunners wear masks would be a wise decision, considering they are proven to prevent the spread of COVID-19. That option would be even more welcome, especially with the news of Miami’s outbreak.

Through the first three games of the season, Rizzo has slashed .222/.500/.889 while hitting two home runs and two RBI in nine at-bats against the Milwaukee Brewers.

At this stage, the Cubs are absolutely in the right by ensuring that Rizzo is protected from here on out. The league simply can’t afford another disastrous news story.