‘This isn’t supposed to be easy’: As Ben Brown thrives in versatile role, Chicago Cubs lose reliever Yency Almonte to IL

The Chicago Cubs right-hander has filled any role asked of him, whether out of the bullpen or starting games, as they navigate myriad injuries that currently includes seven pitchers on the IL. Manager Craig Counsell hoped to stay away from using Brown in Friday’s series opener against the Pittsburgh Pirates in case the Cubs needed him to start Sunday.

Since a tough big-league debut, Brown has posted a 2.12 ERA with 10 walks and 32 strikeouts in 29 2/3 innings. Half of Brown’s walks this season came in his last start May 2 against the New York Mets when he issued five in 4 2/3 innings. Brown wasn’t too concerned by the walks in that outing. Brown’s extended days off from game action clearly didn’t affect the sharpness of his stuff. He threw a couple of bullpens between outings to stay prepared as Counsell and pitching coach Tommy Hottovy kept him informed of the revolving game plan of when he might pitch next. Brown has relied on Hayden Wesneski and Adbert Alzolay and their experiences of moving between the bullpen and rotation as he navigates the challenge.“It’s acknowledging that it’s not the easiest role to be in,” Brown said.

Brown’s versatility remains important as the Cubs lost another pitcher Saturday. Right-hander Yency Almonte went on the 15-day injured list with a right shoulder strain. Right-hander José Cuas was recalled from Triple-A Iowa., but he didn’t recover after the outing. He took the next two days off from throwing, then played catch Friday at PNC Park, which Counsell said didn’t go well. There is no timeline at this point for his return.

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