We’ve been trying to piece this series of Cubs roster moves together all day, but we didn’t have the full picture until now. There are a lot of moving parts – and we already have a dedicated article on the Kyle Hendricks – but here’s the rundown of the flurry of moves per multiple reports.
Cubs Roster Moves
I’m going to list these six moves in pairs of two, because they’re each related in their own way. The short version: Matt Mervis, Hayden Wesneski, and Luke Little are back, while Garrett Cooper (DFA), Kyle Hendricks (IL), and Drew Smyly (IL) are out.
Garrett Cooper designated for assignment, Matt Mervis Called up. This is the one we knew the most about already and dug into earlier today. The short version? With Patrick Wisdom back and Michael Busch locking down first base, the Cubs are moving on from Cooper all together. Again, much greater discussion on what that means for Cooper, Mervis, and the Cubs right here.
Kyle Hendricks to the Injured list (lower back), Hayden Wesneski called up. We also heard about Wesneski getting the call up earlier today, and because it had to be for an injured pitcher, Hendricks was a good guess, but far from a lock. Unfortunately, after a very rough start to the season, this certainly appears to be a “phantom” IL stint for Hendricks – in other words, a good opportunity for a break, both physically and mentally. It’s a sad day. Though, I guess I should mirror Brett and point out that Hendricks did report some back before and during his Sunday start against Miami. I don’t want to just outright claim the Cubs are doing … something that’s not really allowed.
Drew Smyly to the Injured List (right hip impingement), Luke Little called up. We didn’t have any idea this coupling of moves was coming (outside of a stray mention from Jesse Rogers on ESPN 1000). Little, like Wesneski, could only be called up for an injured pitcher, but we didn’t actually know Smyly was hurt. That said, Little makes as much sense as anyone, because he’s also a lefty, and the Cubs clearly like him quite a bit. He needs to rein in his command, but he’s a useful weapon when he’s locked in.
So that’s your three (six) roster moves. Busy day for the Cubs, who are about to kick off a brand new series against the Houston Astros tonight.
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