The Chicago Cubs bullpen currently goes a whopping ten deep (eight is more typical), as the rotation has been in flux and some extra coverage was needed after Cole Hamels’ early exit on Friday.
With Kyle Hendricks returning tomorrow, that number will organically drop by one, and then when the Cubs get back up to a normal bench, it will drop back to the typical eight.
But that won’t be the only bullpen shuffling coming, as Carl Edwards Jr. – who was really awesome for a very long time before his injury! – will be starting a rehab assignment with the Iowa Cubs this week. Edwards has been recovering from a thoracic strain (upper back issue) since the second week of June.
Depending on the roster needs, the Cubs could have Edwards’ rehab stint last varying lengths, but generally speaking, you wouldn’t expect him to need more than a few outings if he’s feeling well.