Cubs recall RHP Felix Pena from Triple-A Iowa, Option RHP Justin Grimm to Triple-A Iowa
In an effort to boost a tired bullpen, the Cubs recalled RHP Felix Pena from Triple-A Iowa and optioned RHP Justin Grimm to Triple-A Iowa prior to Friday’s opener against the Yankees.
Felix Pena, 27, appeared in eight games for the I-Cubs this season and was off to a decent start. Pena had four saves, a 1.86 ERA and 1.34 WHIP. In 9 2/3 innings, Pena allowed two runs on seven hits with six walks and 11 strikeouts.
Pena warmed up in the pen during the ninth inning of Friday’s game after Hector Rondon failed to hold the 2-0 lead, serving up a three-run homer to Brett Gardner. The Yankees won 3-2 on Friday afternoon.
Justin Grimm, 28, was 1-0 in 12 games with a 7.30 ERA and 1.70 WHIP. In 12 1/3 innings, Grimm surrendered 10 runs, all earned, on 13 hits with eight walks and 14 strikeouts.
The struggles of the starting rotation are impacting the bullpen. The Cubs must figure out a way to get each of their five starters, especially Brett Anderson, to pitch deeper each time out.
The Cubs 25-man roster stands at 13 pitchers (five starters, eight relievers) and 12 position players.