It sure sounds like Ben Brown's days in the Cubs' rotation might be numbered

Ben Brown is scheduled to be the starter for the Chicago Cubs on Sunday when they wrap their three-game road series against the Cincinnati Reds this weekend.

Brown's start against the Miami Marlins earlier this week is the perfect example of the inconsistencies the Cubs are dealing with. While Brown didn't walk a batter, and he struck out 8, he failed to make it 5 innings while giving up 6 runs on 7 hits including 2 home runs.

On the season, Brown's ERA now sits at 5.44. One of the reasons why Brown has remained in the rotation is that his ERA isn't telling the full story. Sure, command has been a major issue and when he can't locate his fastball, it is problematic, but his FIP is sitting at 3.49 this season. So, there has been some bad luck with Brown's outings this season.

Having said that, the Cubs are in a contention year and even if it's bad luck, given the injury they have to Justin Steele, they can't afford to have inconsistency in their starting rotation. Especially when you consider the inconsistency the team is already dealing with in their bullpen.

Brown could be a solution to the inconsistency in the bullpen. While talking about Brown's scheduled start against the Reds on Sunday, Bruce Levine suggested that it could be an example of Brown making a case to remain in the rotation.

The debate of what to do with Brown also involves the progress of Cade Horton as well as the eventual return for Shota Imanaga. Imanga's return to the rotation will likely be closer to the end of June, but when ready, it would seem that the Cubs will be debating between whether to keep Brown in the rotation or move him in the bullpen. Of course, that is tied to how Horton continues to look before then.

Given his two-pitch mix and ability to miss bats, Brown would be an ideal candidate to move to the bullpen. It's also important to highlight that moving Brown to the bullpen wouldn't interfere with his long-term outlook as a starting pitcher. That could very much still be in play after this season.