Chicago Cubs: Examining the back end of the starting rotation

Mandatory Credit: Matt Marton-USA TODAY Sports

Tsuyoshi Wada: 1-1, 3.73 record, 1.277 WHIP

Prior to an injury that he sustained in June, Tsuyoshi Wada was the Cubs fifth starter in their rotation. In seven starts, he performed well accumulating a 1-1 record to go along with a 3.73 ERA.

After recovering from the injury, he spent significant time in the minor leagues with the Tennessee Smokies and Iowa Cubs. In one game with Tennessee, he gave up four runs in four innings in a disastrous start. However, he settled down with the Iowa Cubs. In 16 starts, he had a 3.95 ERA and  a 4-5 record. When rosters expanded on Sept 1, the Chicago Cubs called Wada back up to the majors. His role with this team moving forward remains a mystery.

Would the Cubs consider giving him a start during the most important part of the season after such a long layoff?

In the Cubs 14-5 win against the Atlanta Braves on Sept. 4, Wada pitched one inning in relief and gave up one run. At his best, he was an upgrade to Haren and possibly Hendricks. However, he hasn’t started in a major league game since June 22. Would the Cubs consider giving him a start during the most important part of the season after such a long layoff?

Next: Conclusion