Today the Chicago Cubs optioned Caleb Kilian back to Triple-A Iowa after yesterday’s semi-disastrous spot start. Because the bullpen was so heavily needed the last two days, the Cubs opted to bring up an extra reliever rather than another bench bat. It’s lefty Ryan Borucki, who was added to the 40-man roster (there was an open spot), and called up today.
Borucki, 29, had some periodic success over the last five years with the Blue Jays and then the Mariners, but wasn’t able to fully establish himself as a big league regular. The Cubs like the stuff and wanted a chance to work with him at Triple-A before getting a look like this. His numbers at Iowa are pretty terrible, though mostly because he’s gotten blown up the last two times out. Which, well, do with that information what you will. My guess is that this could be a very short stay for Borucki, with Jameson Taillon due back in a few days.
For now, at least the Cubs now have a lefty in the bullpen, with Brandon Hughes on the IL.
As for Kilian, more thoughts on him tomorrow. There is work to be done.