Carlos Pena sidelined with thumb injury

Monday, April 4, 2011
Posted: 5:50 p.m.

By Patrick Mooney
CSNChicago.com
Carlos Pena injured his right thumb on Monday while catching a throw from Starlin Castro at first base. The Cubs described it as a mild sprain that will be monitored day-to-day.

The Gold Glove first baseman went to manager Mike Quade during the eighth inning of Mondays eventual 4-1 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field. The Cubs were in the process of putting two more insurance runs on the scoreboard.

Hes OK, Quade said. (Pena) said, (I can) play defense, no problem, (and) can swing it, but we got an inning going here, maybe someone would be better off (pinch-hitting). Who says that? Thats fantastic to me.

Reed Johnson pinch-hit for Pena, who was unavailable for comment after Mondays win. Second baseman Jeff Baker moved over to first to finish the game.

Outfielder Tyler Colvin worked out at first base throughout spring training and is ready as another option in case Penas condition doesnt improve by Tuesday.

Absolutely, no question, Quade said. (I) wouldnt think twice.