Cubs make flurry of moves: Hoerner returns, Bellinger to IL
The Cubs made a series of moves before opening a series in Philadelphia on Friday.
Second baseman Nico Hoerner was activated from the injured list and returned to the starting lineup. He'd been out since suffering a left hamstring strain while running the bases against the Cardinals on May 8.
Center fielder Cody Bellinger went on the 10-day injured list retroactive to May 16. He suffered a left knee contusion in Houston while leaping against the wall to make a spectacular catch.
First baseman Eric Hosmer was designated for assignment. The veteran hit .234 in 31 games, but the Cubs appear locked into playing Matt Mervis at first base full-time.
Reliever Keegan Thompson was sent to Iowa. He's had a frustrating few weeks, posting a 9.95 ERA in May, after going 1.80 in April.
The Cubs recalled Palatine native Mike Tauchman, a Fremd High School graduate, and Edwin Rios from Iowa. Tauchman is a five-year MLB vet, playing for Colorado, the Yankees and San Francisco. He had a hot start in spring training, then hit .279 in Iowa this season. Rios started the season with the Cubs and becomes another option at first base.
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