NEWSLETTER
If the Tribune’s source is correct, the Brian Matusz era in Chicago lasted exactly one unsuccessful three-inning start. Although the reported release has not yet posted to the Cubs’ transaction log, I have no reason to doubt its accuracy, given that Matusz is without minor league options. He wasn’t likely to be given another start, and so, if he wasn’t going to replace – for example – Justin Grimm in the bullpen, he wasn’t going to stick around. (MINOR UPDATE: It’s now being reported as a DFA, which means the Cubs have 10 days to trade, waive, or release Matusz. The practical effect is probably going to be nothing, as he’s not going to be claimed, and thus will have to decide if he wants to stick with the Cubs on a new minor league deal or try again elsewhere.)
It’s a bummer that it didn’t work out, since a little extra starting pitching depth would have been nice.
In any case, the Cubs will now be able to bring up another reliever tonight to support the bullpen after last night’s marathon. Grimm, who was originally optioned to Iowa to make room for Matusz, is not eligible to return for another nine days. Unless Trevor Cahill (knee) is ready to come off of his rehab stint, the Cubs would seem most likely to add Spencer Patton, who is already on the 40-man roster, and has been up and down with the big league team this year.
We’ll keep tabs on the roster moves today, in addition to the obvious trade stuff.
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