JEFF’S CHICAGO SPORTS BLOG - JEFF SAMARDZIJA MAKES HIS MAJOR LEAGUE DEBUT WITH THE CHICAGO CUBS
Jeff Samardzija debuted in yesterday's loss to the
Florida Marlins. Despite allowing the tying run, Samardzija displayed strong promise to Cubs fans. He has a full selection of pitches and a live arm that will undoubtedly help the Cubs in a bullpen capacity for the remainder of this year.
Samardzija pitched two innings and threw a total of 31 pitches. He showed great poise in the eighth inning by retiring the side in order. With the recent struggles of Bob Howry and Carlos Marmol, Samardzija will provide some needed help in a bullpen that now has to endure closer, Kerry Wood, being placed on the disabled list. Until Wood comes back, Samardzija will be assured of a roster spot.
The Cubs need better performances out of their short relievers to stay atop the National League Central division. The Milwaukee Brewers are just one game behind the Cubs having won eight of their last nine games and will play host to the Chicago Cubs beginning on Monday for a pivotal four game series.
Wood is due back on Tuesday so it will be interesting what the Cubs decide to do with Samardzija. It would be nice to keep him on the 25-man roster but I'm not sure that's what the Cubs will do. One thing for sure is that we'll definitely see him when the roster expands to forty in September.
JEFF ARDITO & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
