:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69242410/usa_today_15896450.0.jpg)
Tyson Miller pitched in two games for the 2020 Cubs, and was expected to compete for a roster spot in 2021. Unfortunately, he was placed on the COVID-19 list during spring training and didn’t appear at all this spring.
Now, there’s news about Miller:
RHP Tyson Miller has been reinstated from the COVID-19 IL.
— Meghan Montemurro (@M_Montemurro) May 5, 2021
Miller is assigned to Triple-A Iowa but will remain in Arizona for now and continue to build up.
To make room on the 40-man, C Austin Romine has been transferred to the 60-day IL. #Cubs
So, it’ll be a while before Miller sees any game action, and we probably won’t see him in Chicago until September, if then.
The more significant news is the transfer of Austin Romine to the 60-day injured list. Romine began 2021 on the IL due to a knee issue suffered in spring training. He was activated April 14 and appeared in six games, going 1-for-9.
He went back on the IL April 26 with what was described as a “left wrist sprain.”
Obviously, it’s more than that if he’s been transferred to the 60-day — that means he’s likely out until July.
It’s unlikely the Cubs will want to go with Tony Wolters as the backup to Willson Contreras for that long. They’re likely scouring the waiver wire for catchers. Jonathan Lucroy is a possibility; he’s been at the Nationals’ alternate site since April 14 and isn’t on their Triple-A roster.
In looking at that Triple-A roster, another former Cub is on it — Welington Castillo. Castillo last played in the majors in 2019 with the White Sox and hit 12 home runs in 72 games.
That’s just a couple of ideas. Perhaps you have some. I’m pretty sure the Cubs will be looking around.