Chicago Cubs: Edwin Jackson performing admirably out of the bullpen, but sparingly

Should Jackson be getting more opportunities in the pen?

The Chicago Cubs saw the bullpen falter in a second straight game, after being essentially lights out the first nine games. Short outings by the starters, and

‘s style of using the relievers is adding up in innings pitched.

appeared in just his second ballgame in mop-up duty, but once again pitched two clean frames. Should Maddon consider using him in higher-leverage situations?

Jackson has been about as professional as you can be after being a big offseason signing, to a bust–now relegated to the bullpen. He’s said all the right things, gone about his job as he should–and is actually one of the Cubs best relievers, statistically that is.

The loss of Neil Ramirez was more painful than many realize. He was that guy Maddon would have preferred to go to in this last two games. Brian Schlitter just hasn’t had it this year. There were some tough breaks in the bad call in yesterday’s game–and he did force weak contact today, but the results ended in Cubs’ losses.

Three Cubs’ relievers are yet to allow a run. Pedro Strop, Zac Rosscup and yes, Jackson. Although he’s slotted in as the “long man”, due to injuries his role may need to evolve. And my thought is, this early in the season–what do the Cubs have to lose?

Hiding Jackson in the pen for just mop-up duty does no good. If the Cubs believe he can succeed out there, as they’ve stated, put him in situations that matter. Even if you believe he can succeed out there for another team, build that value.

The pen is getting called on early and often. There have been a few times that I feel Maddon pulled the starter too soon–today included–but regardless, that’s leading to heavy innings early in the season. Jackson’s routine may be different, but his arm should be able to handle more innings than the rest of the bullpen arms.

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I never thought I’d see the day when I would be calling for Maddon to use Jackson more. But this may be a situation where it needs to be considered. Run him out in some more meaningful innings and see the results. either for the Cubs benefit, or to trade Jackson–they need to see where his value lies.

And with injuries and heavy innings filling the early season for Cubs pitching, it may not just come down to they should do it, but that they’ll HAVE to.

Next: Cubs drop series to Padres, lose 5-2 in finale