Injury During Spring Training Raises Concerns

Chicago Cubs prospect Jonathon Long’s participation in the upcoming 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) is now uncertain after sustaining an injury during a spring training game against the Texas Rangers on February 22nd. The injury occurred while Long was playing first base.

Details of the Injury

Long was injured in the top of the fourth inning while attempting to receive a throw from the shortstop. He fell to the ground clutching his left hand and appeared to be in pain. Reports indicate the injury is an elbow sprain.

Chicago Sun-Times reporter Maddie Lee stated Long is expected to be sidelined while recovering and This proves unclear whether he will be available for the regular season opener.

Impact on WBC Participation

The injury throws Long’s availability for the WBC into question. Chinese Taipei is scheduled to evaluate the extent of his injury on February 23rd to determine if he can still participate. Long was originally scheduled to join the Taiwanese national team on February 27th.

Long joined the Taiwan national baseball team as a Taiwanese-American player, along with Cleveland Guardians outfielder Stuart Fairchild.

Long’s Background and Potential

The right-handed hitting utility player, born in 2002, is considered a promising prospect within the Cubs organization. In 140 games for the Triple-A Iowa Cubs in 2025, Long recorded a batting average of .305, with 157 hits, 20 home runs, 91 RBIs, and an OPS of .883. He has a minor league home run record of 44.

He was invited to spring training by the Cubs on February 9, 2026, after previously receiving a non-roster invitation on February 7, 2025.

Recent Transactions

• February 9, 2026: Chicago Cubs invited non-roster 1B Jonathon Long to spring training.
• February 5, 2026: Chinese Taipei activated 1B Jonathon Long.