Cubs rule out shortstop Addison Russell for NLCS with hamstring injury

Cubs shortstop Addison Russell has been ruled out for the NLCS with a hamstring injury.

Chicago Cubs shortstop Addison Russell has been ruled out for the NLCS with a hamstring injury, the team announced Thursday.

Russell, 21, was injured running out a triple during Game 3 of the NLDS and missed Game 4 as a result.

Renowned for his defense, Russell is hitting .250 in four postseason games. He was replaced by 22-year-old Javier Baez, who homered in the series-clincher and will likely start at shortstop in Russell’s stead. Starlin Castro also has significant experience at shortstop, but has slotted in comfortably at second base for Chicago.

Chicago will be able to add another player to its roster for the coming series against the winner of Thursday’s game between the Mets and Dodgers. Russell would be eligible to return for the World Series, if healthy.

The NLCS begins on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET. Jon Lester is slated to start Game 1 for the Cubs.

- Jeremy Woo