Per a report by MLB.com Chicago Cubs reporter Jordan Bastian, right-handed pitcher Alec Mills is currently with the Cubs. But, he won’t come off the injured list when first eligible on Monday, June 6. As reported, the right-hander hopes to build up to five innings pitched in his next slated start for the Iowa Cubs. Mills is scheduled to pitch on Tuesday night against the Toledo Mud Hens. Mills has made four starts at Triple-A Iowa and has a 4.97 ERA in 12.2 IP.
This season, we haven’t seen Mills pitch at the big league level due to a lower back strain and right quadriceps strain. With Wade Miley and Drew Smyly both on the 15-day IL, the Cubs could use his durability in the rotation. This rings especially true if they choose not to call up Caleb Kilian. Eventually, he’s probably better suited for a bullpen role. He went 6-7 with a 5.07 ERA last season with the Cubs.
Speaking of Miley and Smyly, we have a couple of noteworthy updates on their injuries. According to Taylor McGregor of Marquee Sports Network, Miley is throwing a bullpen session on Thursday.
This is good news, considering Miley has a 3.38 ERA with 10 strikeouts in 16.0 IP this season. In addition, he was placed on the 15-Day IL only four days ago, meaning a fast return is incredibly positive.
As for Drew Smyly and his right oblique injury, there is no timetable for his return. However, Jordan Bastian of MLB.com says the lefty is estimated to be out for at least a month.
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