Newcomb activated from IL as third lefty bullpen option originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
NEW YORK — The Cubs activated Sean Newcomb from the 15-day injured list Sunday, providing a third left-handed option in the bullpen for the finale of a three-game series against the Yankees.
Right-hander Michael Rucker was optioned to Triple-A Iowa after Saturday night’s 8-0 loss, during which he threw 48 pitches in a three-inning relief appearance.
The Cubs, who open a seven-game homestand against the Padres and Braves on Monday, have one left-hander left in the rotation (Justin Steele) since Drew Smyly (oblique) and Wade Miley (shoulder) landed on the IL.
Newcomb has been sidelined for the past month because of a sprained left ankle.
The Cubs have lost five consecutive games to fall to a season low-water mark of 12 games under .500.
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