Cubs finally cut bait on failed project to recall Moises Ballesteros

Reports first surfaced on Tuesday night that the Chicago Cubs were going to recall Moises Ballesteros from Triple-A Iowa. The expectation was that the Cubs were going to place Ian Happ on the IL after he fouled a ball off his shin during the team's loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday night. X-rays were negative for Happ, which added some questions as to why he was going to be placed on the IL.

The Cubs confirmed on Wednesday that Ballesteros was indeed added to the Major League roster, but the corresponding move was not Happ going to the IL. Instead, the Cubs designated Vidal Bruján for assignment.

Cubs cut underperforming vet as Moises Ballesteros gets the call

There was an expectation that Bruján's roster spot was in jeopardy as the MLB trade deadline approached, as it was clear the Cubs needed an upgrade on their bench. Whether or not Ballesteros remains with the team for the rest of the season will likely be determined by the moves made on Thursday.

If there was any doubt that the Cubs' front office wouldn't be aggressive ahead of the deadline on Thursday, Wednesday's move should clear up that concern. No stone will be left unturned as the front office now tries to catch up to the Milwaukee Brewers, who could have a three-game lead over the Cubs if they win on Wednesday.

As for Bruján, it seemed clear that his days were numbered with the Cubs' organization. After trading Matt Mervis for Bruján over the winter, the utility infielder slashed .222/.234/.289 in 47 plate appearances with the Cubs this season.

Ballesteros' initial run with the Cubs didn't yield great results as the Cubs' top catching prospect collected only 3 hits in 18 plate appearances, but many talent evaluators remain bullish over how his bat projects at the Major League level.

Without knowing what the Cubs' moves will be at the deadline, it's hard to project how many plate appearances Ballesteros will have between now and the end of the season. Of course, it remains possible that Ballesteros is moved in a trade.

Of added importance, the Cubs' 40-man roster now has two open spots following Bruján being designated for assignment.

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