According to a report from Bruce Levine, the Cubs have recalled Mitch Atkins from Triple-A Iowa. Atkins was named PCL Pitcher of the Week (May 31 – June 6). Atkins finished the week 1-0 in two starts with a 0.75 ERA. For the year, Atkins posted a 4-2 record in six starts (14 games) with a 2.63 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP (15 walks and 33 strikeouts in 48 innings).
The Cubs have not announced the corresponding roster move … but the only pitchers with minor league options left for this season are Jeff Stevens, James Russell, Andrew Cashner and Randy Wells.
Updated – 2:04pm CDT – James Russell Optioned to Triple-A Iowa Will update …
Updated – 10:50am CDT – Carrie Muskat confirmed the move via Twitter and said Atkins would be in the Cubs’ pen Saturday.
Updated – 11:11am – The Tribune is reporting that James Russell seems a likely candidate to be sent down to make room for Atkins.