PITTSBURGH (AP) — The Chicago Cubs have placed second baseman Darwin Barney on the 15-day disabled list because of a laceration on his left knee.
Chicago activated infielder Alberto Gonzalez to replace Barney on the active roster.
Barney injured the knee while trying to track down a pop-up during Saturday’s exhibition against Houston. Barney received five stitches on the knee and was put on the DL as a precaution.
Brent Lillibridge started in Barney’s place for Monday’s season opener in Pittsburgh.
The 27-year-old Barney batted .239 in spring training. He hit .254 with seven home runs and 44 RBIs in 156 games for the Cubs in 2012.
To make room for Gonzalez on the 40-man roster, the Cubs designated right-hander Robert Whitenack for assignment.
