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We wrote earlier on Tuesday morning that struggling right-handed relief pitcher Eli Morgan wasn't long for the team's Major League roster, and it seems that the Chicago Cubs will be making a move before Tuesday night's game against the San Diego Padres.
After stringing together three scoreless appearances after his six-run appearance against the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 30, the wheel came off the wagon for the former Cleveland Guardians' pitcher on Monday night against the Padres. Morgan gave up 4 runs on Monday night including 2 home runs in less than an inning of work.
On the season, Morgan is sporting a 12.27 ERA with an FIP of 8.49 in a tick over 7 innings pitched. A stark contrast from the 1.93 ERA he posted with the Guardians last season.
Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reports that Morgan is expected to be placed on the IL after his appearance on Monday night. Mooney notes that Morgan has been pitching through an elbow injury to start the season. The hope is that the elbow injury is the cause of Morgan's struggles this season because he looked unpitchable in his initial run with the Cubs.
The Cubs' bullpen shuffling is starting
The Cubs have several options that they could consider to take Morgan's spot in the bullpen. Daniel Palencia seems like an ideal candidate considering the velocity he is equipped with. Palencia is carrying a strikeout percentage of 41.2% through his first 5 appearances with the Iowa Cubs. Jordan Wicks could also be an option as the Cubs sift through different pitching options in light of Justin Steele being out for the remainder of the season.
Help is also on the way. Javier Assad begins a minor-league rehab assignment this week and the Cubs also have Tyson Miller and Ryan Brasier working their way back to the Major League roster.
Beyond Morgan, it also wouldn't be a surprise if Nate Pearson is optioned to Iowa on Tuesday as well. Pearson's struggles continued on Monday and he continues to be far away from the bullpen's circle of trust.