The Chicago Cubs are shuffling their bullpen as they open the second game of their series against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday. According to the team, RHP Brad Boxberger is back and has been activated from the 60-day IL. In order to open a spot for Boxberger, RHP Keegan Thompson has been sent down to Triple-A Iowa.
Boxberger has not pitched at the big-league level since May 13 after giving up three runs against the Minnesota Twins. Since then, Boxberger hit the shelf with a strained forearm that required a lot of time to build back up. Now, the veteran returns to hopefully improve an already solid backend of the Cubs' pen.
Prior to the injury, Boxberger struggled at times. In 17 appearances and only 14.2 innings of work, Boxberger carried a 5.52 ERA and 13 strikeouts along with nine walks. Boxberger was inconsistent, perhaps indicating something technical was off. In addition, it would explain why he suffered such a severe forearm strain that required time on the 60-day IL.
As for Thompson, he returns to Iowa to continue working back. Thompson made four appearances since last being recalled on August 24. His first two appearances against Pittsburgh and Cincinnati were solid, but he gave up two earned runs in each of his last two appearances. Thompson looks better, but still needs to continue working back to his old form.
The Cubs and Diamondbacks will do battle in the second game of their four-game set on Friday. Jameson Taillon takes the bump for the Cubs against Arizona's ace Zac Gallen. The Cubs will look to get back to their winning ways after a disappointing loss on Thursday night.
More must-reads: