Cubs Dodged a Bullet Following Initial X-Ray on Kris Bryant's Ankle

After dropping two games at home versus the NL Central-leading St. Louis Cardinals, the Chicago Cubs' playoff hopes are fading fast. Additionally, the Milwaukee Brewers continue to roll despite the universe seemingly working against them following Christian Yelich's injury.

The Cubbies' aspirations appeared to endure another lethal blow on Sunday when Kris Bryant was forced from the game upon awkwardly slipping on first base while trying to beat out a double play ball. It may be, however, that Bryant avoided the worst; initial x-rays revealed that the former MVP did not fracture his right ankle, though he will still undergo an MRI.

The Wrigley Field faithful should absolutely be breathing a sigh of relief, but we cannot determine if Bryant returning before the season's conclusion is a genuine possibility at this stage.

For starters, he couldn't put full pressure on his ankle, and needed to be helped off the diamond by Chicago's medical staff.

The Cubs, currently three games back of the Brewers and 3.5 back of the Nationals in the Wild Card, only have six games remaining in 2019. The club might be better off cutting their losses so as to not risk further damage to Bryant's ankle.

Sitting the All-Star third baseman for the final week of the campaign just seems like the most knowledgable settlement. We'll know more once the MRI results come in. Until then, stay tuned.