The injury bug has come for the Chicago Cubs' starting rotation as Justin Steele was placed on the 15-Day IL on Wednesday morning with elbow tendonitis.
The Cubs have touted their starting pitching depth, which is why it may have been a surprise that right-handed relief pitcher Ethan Roberts took Steele's spot on the 26-man roster. However, it's important to point out that Steele's next turn in the rotation would not be until this weekend when they play the Los Angeles Dodgers. Specifically, it would be Sunday's game.
It's also important to point out that the Cubs have an off day on Thursday. In theory, Jameson Taillon could make the start on Sunday.
Nevertheless, if the Cubs were to add a starting pitcher from Triple-A Iowa, it wasn't going to be on Wednesday. For the time being, Roberts gives the Cubs an extra arm in the rotation.
Once Steele's spot in the rotation is up, then the Cubs will have a decision to make.
1. Colin Rea
A betting man would likely point in the direction of Colin Rea getting the nod for Steele's spot in the rotation. Rea has been used as a bulk reliever in the Cubs bullpen this season, so there wouldn't be a complete need for him to be stretched out. Under this scenario, Robert would likely get an extended stay with the Major League pitching staff.
2. Jordan Wicks
The forgotten Jordan Wicks could also be a candidate to be recalled and take Steele's turn in the rotation. Wicks never appeared to be a serious candidate to be the Cubs' fifth starter this season, but the team is keeping him stretched out with the Iowa Cubs. If the Cubs like the fact that Rea gives the bullpen someone who can pitch multiple innings per appearance, Wicks getting called up before Sunday could be the move.
3. Cade Horton
Cade Horton feels like the "in case of an emergency, break glass" option for the Cubs when it comes to internal solutions for the Major League starting rotation. With that in mind, Steele's injury does not appear to be one of those moments. Having said that, Horton will be a name to keep an eye on during the later months of the season.
