The Cubs have gone to a youth movement in their starting rotation as the team looks toward the future with right-hander Adbert Alzolay and left-hander Justin Steele. Right-hander Keegan Thompson has been getting stretched out at Triple-A Iowa, preparing to join Alzolay and Steele in the rotation.
It sounds like Thompson will be making his return to Chicago this weekend. The Cubs have not officially named a starter for Saturday’s game against the Royals, but all signs point to Thompson making the start. Manager David Ross referred to Thompson as being “Plan A” for that start.
“That would be ideal,” Ross said.
Thompson had success pitching in a multi-inning role for the Cubs this season, going 3-2 with a 2.21 ERA in 27 games. The right-hander has dominated in his time in Triple-A since returning to a starting role and has not allowed a run over his four starts in Iowa.
Alzolay throws light bullpen session
Right-hander Adbert Alzolay threw a light bullpen session before Wednesday’s game as he continues to progress from his left hamstring strain he sustained on Friday. Alzolay, who went on the 10-day injured list on Saturday, is eligible to return Tuesday and the team is hoping his stint on the shelf is a short one.
“I’m hopeful it doesn’t linger too long. We’ll have to just wait and see,” Ross said. “But when you’ve got injuries like we’ve had all year, we try to be as cautious as possible. And I think we’re in a spot where he would love to be back. We’d love to have him back. But we’re gonna do what’s right and make sure he’s healthy.”
Sampson gets nod against the Reds
The Cubs selected the contract of right-hander Adrian Sampson from Triple-A Iowa. Sampson has a 4.96 ERA over 16 games (14 starts) in the minors this season. The right-hander has pitched over parts of three seasons with the Mariners and the Rangers
Sampson pitched well in his first start for the Cubs, allowing just one run on five hits over four innings of work against the Reds. He struck out two without allowing a walk.
The team designated outfielder Johneshwy Fargas for assignment to make room on the active roster.
Cubs announce 2022 spring schedule
The Cubs announced their tentative 2022 Spring Training schedule, which begins on Saturday, February 26 at Sloan Park with the club’s home opener against the Los Angeles Dodgers and concludes against the Chicago White Sox at Sloan Park on Tuesday, March 29.
The club’s tentative 34-game schedule includes 18 games at Sloan Park and 16 Cactus League road games. The league could add games at a later date.
The Cubs and White Sox will play four times next spring on March 9, 28 and 29 in Mesa and March 18 in Glendale.
