In a disappointing turn of events, the Chicago Cubs have been dealt a significant blow as they placed outfielder Cody Bellinger on the 10-day injured list. Bellinger suffered a left middle finger fracture after being hit by a pitch thrown by Cionel Pérez during Wednesday night's game against the Baltimore Orioles.

The incident occurred in the seventh inning of the Cubs' 4-0 victory over the Orioles. Although Bellinger initially stayed in the game, he was forced to leave shortly after. The severity of the injury remains uncertain, leaving fans and management anxious about the star player's return.

Manager Craig Counsell addressed the situation, stating that Bellinger would be shut down through the All-Star break. Rehabilitation for the injured finger will then commence, and the team will assess his progress after that period. The team anticipates a lengthy recovery process, but they remain hopeful for Bellinger's eventual return to the field.

Losing Bellinger is undoubtedly a blow for the Cubs, who entered their series finale in Baltimore on Thursday after winning five of their last six games. Bellinger's absence will be sorely felt in the lineup, as he is a key contributor, batting .269 with nine home runs and 37 RBI this season.

Counsell acknowledged the challenge of replacing Bellinger's production in the lineup, stating, "We're losing the guy who hits third in the lineup, so that hurts. You don't replace that, necessarily." However, he emphasized the team's resilience and determination to continue their decent offensive streak during Bellinger's absence.

To address the void left by Bellinger, the Cubs have recalled outfielder Alexander Canario from Triple-A Iowa. Canario has already appeared in 13 games with the team this season, and his experience will be crucial in filling the gap left by Bellinger's absence.

The Cubs will now need to rally and come together as a team to maintain their recent success without Bellinger's contributions. As the recovery process begins, the Cubs organization, fans, and Bellinger himself will hope for a swift return to the field for one of their key players.