Cubs Recall Michael Rucker, Option Caleb Kilian

The Chicago Cubs made a pair of roster moves involving pitchers prior to Tuesday's series opener against the White Sox. The North Siders recalled right-hander Michael Rucker from the Iowa Cubs and optioned fellow righty Caleb Kilian to the Triple-A affiliate.

Rucker owns a 5.03 ERA and 1.424 WHIP with 39 strikeouts and 17 walks in 39.1 innings across 34 bullpen appearances this season. He returns to the North Side for his third stint with the MLB club this season.

To make room for Rucker, Kilian will head back to Triple-A Iowa. In three games with the Cubs this season, Kilian has a 16.88 ERA with five strikeouts and two walks over just five innings of work.

Following the news of Marcus Stroman being scratched from Wednesday’s start, it’s critical that bullpen arms step up to provide quality innings in his absence. The Cubs are hoping Rucker can provide some relief as he returns to Chicago.