Cubs' Dexter Fowler unable to start Thursday for first time in 2015

Cubs outfielder Dexter Fowler was absent from the starting lineup Thursday against the Pirates after leaving Wednesday's game due to a groin injury. Rookie Kris Bryant started in center field Thursday for Chicago.

Thursday was the first time all season Fowler did not start in center field. Although, he said he is available to pinch-hit, per MLB.com. He is batting .246 with one home run, two triples, three doubles and four RBI in 14 games.

"If I had to play, I probably could," Fowler said Thursday, per MLB.com.