The Cubs are taking a measured approach to Addison Russell's return as he works his way back from a 40-game suspension that began Sept. 21, 2018, for violating baseball's policy against domestic abuse.
"We're taking this day to day," Cubs president Theo Epstein said before Thursday's game against the Dodgers (via ESPN.com). "This is one situation where it is not appropriate to get ahead of the story. Addison has a lot of work to do going forward. There is no finish line here."
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In preparation for Russell being activated from MLB's restricted list May 3, the Cubs assigned the infielder to Chicago's Triple-A Iowa affiliate Wednesday to play at least seven games. However, Epstein indicated his Triple-A stint could last longer because the Cubs want to ensure he's ready both physically and mentally before making his return.
When asked whether keeping Russell in the minors after those seven games is an option, Epstein replied: "Of course it is. I told him seven days does not necessarily get someone ready for the season." He added, "Nothing is promised."
Russell has gone through counseling mandated by the league after abuse allegations from his ex-wife surfaced last season. Epstein said the Cubs have been pleased with the 25-year-old's progress and gave credit to the shortstop for making appropriate changes.
"If you ask the people in Addison's life, you would see there have been some positives that have come out of this thus far," Epstein said, "and his behavior to this point has lived up to the standards we're requiring of him."
Russell addressed the work he's done off the field, and said he's doing everything he can to become a better person.
"It's been a lot of hard work, a lot of self-reflecting and a lot of self-growth,'' Russell said Thursday. "They have a high standard for me, and as we are right now, I think I've hit all those standards. I'm just working on myself.'
"Everyone is entitled to their opinion," he added. "... I'm just excited to get a second chance.''