According to multiple reports, the Cubs promoted two hard throwing relievers to Triple-A Iowa from Double-A Tennessee Wednesday. Arodys Vizcaino and Armando Rivero were promoted to Iowa and both relievers are expected to be added to Iowa’s roster Thursday.
Armando Rivero pitched in the Southern League All-Star Game Tuesday night. Rivero has been the Smokies main closer and is 2-1 in 26 games this season with a 0.98 WHIP. In 34 2/3 innings, Rivero has allowed seven runs, six earned, on 18 hits with 54 strikeouts and 16 walks. The hard-throwing right hander has not allowed an earned run in his last six appearances. Rivero has given up five hits with four walks and 12 strikeouts over his last 6 2/3 innings.
Armando Rivero was in big league camp this spring on a non-roster invite. Rivero is not on the 40-man roster and would have to be added to the 40-man before he can be promoted to the big leagues.
Arodys Vizcaino started the year in High-A Daytona and appeared in only nine games before his promotion to Double-A Tennessee. In 14 games with the Smokies, Vizcaino allowed four runs on seven hits with three walks and 16 strikeouts in 13 2/3 innings.
Arodys Vizcaino is on a three-day pitching schedule and has pitched on less than three days rest only twice this season. Vizcaino is on the Cubs’ 40-man roster and if he stays on track he should make his Cubs’ debut in September when the rosters expand.
The corresponding roster moves to add Kris Bryant, Arodys Vizcaino and Armando Rivero have not been announced. Iowa is expected to add all three players, and possibly Manny Ramirez to the roster prior to Thursday night’s game at Principal Park against El Paso.