Cubs’ Bryant misses 2nd start in row after hit in helmet

CLEVELAND (AP) - Chicago Cubs third baseman Kris Bryant is out of the lineup for the second straight game after being hit in the helmet by a pitch.

Cubs manager Joe Maddon made the decision to hold Bryant out of the series finale against the Cleveland Indians on Wednesday night. The 2016 National League MVP didn’t play in the Cubs’ 10-3 win Tuesday.

Maddon said Bryant has been checked by doctors and could return Thursday night when the Cubs begin a four-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers at Wrigley Field.

Bryant is batting .319 with two homers and 11 RBIs this season. He had a cut above his left eye after being hit Sunday by Colorado’s German Marquez.