Cubs’ Starlin Castro scratched from lineup because of tight groin

MESA, Ariz. – Just when it looked like Starlin Castro might get through his first spring in three years without a leg injury, the All-Star shortstop was scratched from Saturday’s lineup because of right groin tightness.

The team does not consider it serious and calls it a day-to-day injury. Prized shortstop prospect Addison Russell took Castro’s place in Saturday’s lineup.

Castro missed significant game time each of the last two springs because of hamstring injuries but opened the season on time each year.

A team spokesman said Castro may have started to experience the groin issue in Thursday night’s game against Arizona – during which he committed two defensive miscues in one inning.

The Cubs open the season two weeks from Sunday.