According to multiple reports, the Cubs officially added Carlos Villanueva to the 40-man roster on Saturday. The Cubs reportedly agreed to a two-year, $10 contract will Villanueva on December 20.
To make room on the 40-man roster, the Cubs designated RHP Lendy Castillo for assignment.
With the addition of Carlos Villanueva and the subtraction of Lendy Castillo, the Cubs 40-man roster stands at 40 players … with one contract pending.
Updated 5:36pm CST – According to ESPN Chicago, the Cubs will pay Carlos Villanueva $5 million per year.
Carlos Villanueva posted a 7-7 record in 38 games, 16 starts for the Blue Jays last season. In 125 1/3 innings, Villanueva struck out 122 batters and walked only 46 while surrendering 113 hits (4.16 ERA and a 1.27 WHIP. Villanueva was 20-24 over five years with the Brewers (2006-2010). In 425 innings, Villanueva struck out 381 and walked 151 batters (4.34 ERA and a 1.31 WHIP).
The 29-year old right-hander is expected to be the Cubs swingman this season and provide the team staring pitching depth.
Carlos Villanueva’s Page on Baseball-Reference
The Cubs selected Lendy Castillo in the 2011 Rule 5 Draft out of the Phillies’ system. Castillo showed promise in the spring and has excellent stuff, when he can get the ball over the plate. Castillo pitched in just 13 games last year and was 0-1 with a 7.88 ERA and a 2.25 WHIP (13 strikeouts, 12 walks and 24 hits allowed in 16 innings).
Lendy Castillo should clear waivers and be assigned to Double-A Tennessee where he should be used as a starter to begin the season. The 23-year old (April 8, 1989) has the stuff to be successful in the big leagues but needs time in the minors.
Lendy Castillo’s Page on Baseball-Reference