Report: Cubs recall Blake Parker; Chris Rusin sent down

Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports

Chris Rusin threw five innings and allowed just one run in relief during Saturday’s loss, but will be sent down to Triple-A in favor of Blake Parker, who was recalled.

Rusin, 27, will rejoin Iowa’s rotation in Memphis today in the series finale between the Cubs and Cardinals’ Triple-A affiliates.

Parker, 28, was one of the Cubs’ final cuts from the spring training roster after he recorded a 7.00 ERA in nine appearances. In 2013, he went 1-2 with a 2.72 ERA, struck out 55 and walked 15 over 46 1/3 innings.

In three appearances this season, Parker pitched three scoreless innings, struck out five and walked none and recorded one save.

Depending on Parker’s performance, he will likely be sent down to Iowa once Jake Arrieta returns to the starting rotation as Carlos Villanueva will take a spot in the Cubs bullpen. A strong performance could see Parker stay with the Cubs and Villanueva or another reliever pack their bags for Iowa.

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