Jeff Samardzija was called up to the Chicago Cubs Major League squad yesterday, as right hander Jose Ascanio was optioned to Triple A Iowa.
Samardzija had started his last twelve outings in Iowa, going 5-3 with a 3.72 ERA, and 53 strikeouts in 67 2/3 innings. However, the 6’5 right hander will be a reliever for the Cubs, where he struggled earlier this season.
"It's a little bit of a problem," Cubs Manager Lou Piniella said. "But, look, to prove the pitches like the breaking ball and so forth, that's why they sent Jeff down originally."
Samardzija had an 8.10 ERA earlier this season for the Major League squad after posting a 2.28 ERA last season in the reliever role. It is common practice for a manager to pitch someone recently called up to the majors, so look for Samardzija to pitch Wednesday night against the Pirates on Comcast Sports Net.