Jeff Roberson/AP Photos
BALTIMORE – The wave of Cubs pitchers expected back from the injured list on either side of the All-Star break began to break Tuesday, as the team activated reliever Mark Leiter Jr. from the 15-day IL before opening a three-game series against the Orioles.
“Getting guys back healthy is a good thing,” manager Craig Counsell said. “It’s going to create more depth.”
In a corresponding move, the Cubs optioned right-hander Ethan Roberts to Triple-A Iowa. If all goes well, right-hander Javier Assad (right forearm extensor strain) could be next to return from the IL.