The Chicago Cubs today did move out Dillon Maples after his strike-zone-optional performance last night against the Reds, optioning him to the South Bend group.
In his place, righty Colin Rea will join the squad.
The #Cubs today recalled RHP Colin Rea from the club’s South Bend Alternate Site. RHP Dillon Maples was optioned to the South Bend Alternate Site. pic.twitter.com/Kx04hsgXyD
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) July 30, 2020
Rea, 30, was the PCL’s Pitcher of the Year in 2019, being one of the few starting pitchers who managed to succeed despite the ultra-juiced ball. He’s a former notable prospect whose ascent was slowed by elbow surgery, and questions about whether his control/command/contact approach will play at the big league level. With the Cubs now, he’ll likely be used in long relief if there’s a short starting outing in the coming days.
At a minimum – well, in theory at least – Rea should be able to throw strikes, something the Cubs have been the worst at in baseball so far out of their bullpen.
My guess as to why Rex Brothers was spared but Maples was not? Brothers is a lefty in an 11-man bullpen that has just him and Kyle Ryan. He gets a little more runway with Brad Wieck (hamstring) out.