Cubs roster move: Adbert Alzolay recalled, Kyle Ryan returned to alternate site

The Cubs have had three off days since April 8, and thus did not need a fifth starter through that time span.

Now, they are in a stretch of 16 straight days playing baseball until their next off day, which will happen May 6 in between series against the Dodgers and Pirates at Wrigley Field.

Thus they will need a full complement of five rotation starters through that period, and to fill out the rotation, Adbert Alzolay was recalled from the Cubs’ alternate site in South Bend to start Saturday afternoon’s game against the Brewers. More on Alzolay in today’s game preview coming up at 11:30 a.m. CT.

Thus this move was expected:

Ryan was recalled Friday, replacing Shelby Miller on the active roster, when Miller was placed on the injured list. Ryan did his job well Friday, eating up two innings in a blowout. He threw 34 pitches, meaning he’d likely not be available for a couple of days anyway. Ryan has an option remaining, so it’s possible he’ll be up and down between Chicago, South Bend and eventually Iowa this year.

Here’s hoping for a solid outing from Alzolay this afternoon.