The Chicago Cubs are looking for a boost to their struggling bullpen and hope they have found it in right-hander Keegan Thompson. The Cubs are recalling Thompson from Triple-A Iowa on Thursday as they prepared to open a four-game series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.
Thompson began the season in Chicago but was sent down in May after posting a 4.22 ERA and struggling with his command. His time in the minors was also rocky, as he had a 13.00 ERA over his first 12 appearances for Iowa.
However, Thompson has shown signs of improvement over his last four outings in Triple-A. He allowed just two earned runs over 8.1 innings while issuing only one walk and recording eight strikeouts.
The Cubs are hoping Thompson can carry over that momentum to the big-league club. Their bullpen has been taxed this season, with top relievers Mark Leiter Jr., Julian Merryweather, and Adbert Alzolay all exceeding their career highs in appearances.
Getting Thompson back on track would provide a major boost and take some pressure off the Cubs' late-inning options. When pitching well, the 28-year-old can be a versatile weapon capable of pitching multiple innings in relief. Last season, Thompson was one of the top options out of the pen for the Cubs. A return to that level would be incredibly beneficial for the Cubs.
In 12 relief outings for Chicago earlier this season, Thompson posted a stellar 1.47 ERA over 36.2 innings. The Cubs will be counting on him to regain that effectiveness as they try to stay in the playoff hunt down the stretch.
Thompson's recall comes at an opportune time with five weeks remaining. If he can stabilize the bullpen, it could make a major difference in Chicago's postseason push.
More must-reads: