The Chicago Cubs roster has not settled into a static state of existence for some time now, and that isn’t changing today.
Just yesterday, for example, the Cubs optioned right-handed reliever Pierce Johnson back to Triple-A Iowa in order to call up Dylan Floro. But, after struggling in his 2.0 innings against the Brewers yesterday afternoon (7H, 5ER, 1BB, 1K), he’s headed back down to Iowa (that’s not the sole reason for his demotion, of course, but it certainly wasn’t a great performance). Through his 6.1 Major League innings this season, Floro has earned an 8.53 ERA (5.72 FIP).
In his place, the Cubs have called up left-hander Zac Rosscup, who’s been pitching reasonable well in Iowa this season, after spending a good chunk of time with the big league Cubs in 2015. Through 15.2 IP at Triple-A, Rosscup has a slightly elevated 3.45 ERA but a really strong 39.7 K% and 4.8 BB%. A probably unsustainable 16.7% HR/FB ratio appears to be the reason his peripherals (2.78 xFIP) are quite stronger than his results.
To add Rosscup to the active roster, however, the Cubs will have to make room for him on the 40-man roster which is otherwise full. That move has yet to be revealed, though I suspect we’ll find out shortly.
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UPDATE: Jake Buchanan has been designated for assignment
To make room for Rosscup on the 40-man roster, RHP Jake Buchanan has been designated for assignment.
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) May 22, 2017
Buchanan, 27, signed a minor league deal with the Cubs before last season and pitched as a starter in Triple-A Iowa, before tossing a few innings at the Major League level in September. Through eight Triple-A starts here in 2017, he’s earned a 4.75 ERA (5.37 FIP) in 41.2 IP.
The Cubs will now have seven days to waive, trade, or release Buchanan.