SAN FRANCISCO -- Even though right fielder Jason Heyward's injury looks to be minor, it had far-reaching implications for the Chicago Cubs. Let’s examine the importance of the moves the Cubs made Saturday with Heyward due to sit out the next few games.
Neil Ramirez designated for assignment
The Cubs were always likely to cut back and carry 12 pitchers at some point, and this gave them the opportunity. Several times in recent games, manager Joe Maddon has run out of players on his bench, and with his starting staff performing so well, keeping eight relievers was a luxury that ran its course.