Cubs Moves: McDonald Up, Boscan Down, Navarro OK

The Cubs recalled J.C. Boscan from Triple-A Iowa Thursday because of the collision between Dioner Navarro and Chase Utley in Philadelphia Wednesday; at the time it was assumed that Navarro could be out a while. However:

#Cubs Navarro, naturally wearing his Messi jersey, in OF doing agility work, light jogging

— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) August 10, 2013

... and ...

#Cubs moves: Boscan to Iowa, Darnell McDonald to bigs, Neal to 60 day DL

— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) August 10, 2013

It was pretty clear after Thomas Neal's injury in the same inning Wednesday that Navarro was hurt, that Neal would likely be out for the season. Thus, the addition of McDonald as a fifth outfielder; the placement of Neal on the 60-day DL makes room for McDonald on the 40-man roster.

Unless Boscan is recalled before August 31, he will become the second player in Cubs history to spend time on the roster during the time of the 25-man limit and not get into a game. Mark Leonette spent a week on the 25-man roster in July 1987 but never pitched -- in fact, never played in the major leagues. Boscan, at least, can say he has -- 11 games over parts of three seasons from 2010-2012 with the Atlanta Braves.

Good news about Navarro; he's having the best year of his career and, presuming his ankle is okay, will probably be back behind the plate before too long.