SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — The Chicago Cubs claimed right-handed reliever Jairo Asencio off waivers from the Cleveland Indians on Friday in hopes of bolstering a bullpen that has struggled this season.
Asencio, who led the International League with 26 saves in 2011, began spring training with the Atlanta Braves before being traded to Cleveland on March 29 for a cash consideration. He went 1-1 with a 5.96 ERA over 25 2-3 innings for the Indians and was designated for assignment on Monday.
Chicago’s relievers have had a tough time this season, having already blown eight of 15 save opportunities. Overall the bullpen has a 4.28 ERA after allowing 34 earned runs over the last 19 innings prior to Friday’s game in San Francisco.
To make room, the Cubs designated right-hander Michael Bowden for assignment.
