Cubs add Brothers back to sizzling bullpen
The Cubs bullpen has become a strength in recent days. Since Aug. 28, relievers have combined to post a 2.03 ERA and .177 opponent batting average.
Is there room to improve? The Cubs brought back left-hander Rex Brothers from South Bend on Friday, sending Thursday's starter Adbert Alzolay back down.
Brother made two appearances for the Cubs early this season and gave up 3 runs, but manager David Ross said he's been throwing well at the alternate site.
Then there's longtime Cub reliever Pedro Strop, who moved into South Bend after being released by the Reds a few weeks ago.
"Yeah, I'm a fan of Pedro's too," Ross said. "We're going to have to wait and see. The pitch data is still a little bit down on him. Want to get him built back up a little more. Tommy Hottovy, our pitching coach, has got his eyes on him and said it looks like he's getting close. All that is good news."
Left-hander Andrew Chafin, who was on the injured list when the Cubs got him in a trade with Arizona, could also be ready soon.