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ATLANTA – In Adbert Alzolay and Michael Fulmer’s absence, Cubs relievers have settled into new roles over the past couple weeks. With Alzolay expected to be activated on Friday for the Cubs’ final series of the regular season, against the Brewers, that experience could prove valuable. The stakes continue to rise as the Cubs try to keep their playoff hopes alive.
Side-armer José Cuas, who the Cubs acquired at the trade deadline, and lefty Drew Smyly, who was a starter for most of the year, have become manager David Ross’ go-tos when he needs to bring in a reliever with traffic on the bases.