The Cubs weren’t finished with their pre-game roster moves, and have indeed decided to move Brad Wieck to the 60-day IL with his cardiac ablation procedure on deck. That’ll mean the earliest he could return is the second week of September.
That move was necessary because the Cubs needed a spot on the 40-man roster to accommodate newly-claimed outfielder Johneshwy Fargas off of waivers from the Mets. Fargas, 26, only just reached Triple-A for the first time this year (blame the pandemic), and has also seen a little big league time with the Mets. From a quick look at the stats, Fargas seems to be an extreme speed guy with minor league options left. He was the unanimous MVP of the Puerto Rican Winter League this past year, so that seems good, and he’s been a high-contact bat throughout his minor league career.
Another reason to grab Fargas now? Unfortunately? Michael Hermosillo left his last game with the Iowa Cubs grabbing at his hamstring, so Iowa might be down an outfielder at the moment. Which sucks.
More on Fargas soon, and I wonder if the Cubs are preparing for some more openings in the organization in the week+ ahead. It’s also possible the Cubs will now try to outright Fargas to Iowa (off the 40-man, and thus tradable thereafter in August in case a team comes up with a speed need).
Oh, also, he flies:
The #Cubs today claimed OF Johneshwy Fargas off waivers from the Mets and optioned him to @IowaCubs.
LHP Brad Wieck has been transferred to the 60-day IL. pic.twitter.com/DzwMrzOBIz
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) July 23, 2021