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Chicago Cubs News: Hayden Wesneski getting stretched out, Nelson Cruz, and more
- Hayden Wesneski getting stretched out to be a starting pitcher.
- Should the Chicago Cubs take a flier on Nelson Cruz?
Hayden Wesneski getting stretched out to be a starting pitcher.
Chicago Cubs pitching prospect Daniel Palencia made his Major League debut on Tuesday as he pitched two scoreless innings for the team in the 10th and 11th innings to earn his first career Major League victory. Palencia reached triple-digits twice during his appearance on Tuesday and that is the reason why the team converted him to a relief pitcher upon his promotion to Triple-A Iowa.
Not to be overlooked in Palencia's Major League debut is that the team optioned Hayden Wesneski to Triple-A Iowa. The purpose for the demotion of Wesneski is for the right-hander to be stretched out as he returns to his natural role of a starting pitcher.
The plan for Wesneski had always been to be a part of the Major League rotation and the move to stretch him out now may be a signal of what lies ahead for the Cubs. If the Cubs fall further out of the contention, Wesneski will undoubtedly return to the rotation in place of a traded Marcus Stroman, Drew Smyly, or Kyle Hendricks. If the Cubs are able to climb back toward contention, Wesneski could be the replacement for Jameson Taillon in the rotation.
Should the Chicago Cubs take a flier on Nelson Cruz?
As part of several roster moves on Tuesday, the San Diego Padres designated veteran slugger Nelson Cruz for assignment. On the season, Cruz is slashing .245/.283/.399 on the season with 5 home runs and an 85 wRC+.
The Cubs should entertain the idea of taking a flier on Cruz. Sure, Cruz is not the hitter he once was but at $1MM owed for this season, there is no downside to a potential move for the Cubs. If Cruz hits and Cubs return to contention, that is the ideal scenario. If Cruz hits over the next couple of weeks and the Cubs fall out of contention, perhaps, you can trade him for a lottery ticket at the end of the month. If Cruz doesn't hit, then you can just move on. Taking a flier on Cruz is the type of soft buy the Cubs should make ahead of the trade deadline.