So, with Jeff Samardzija being shutdown after Saturday’s start, who takes his spot in the Cubs rotation? On Friday, the Cubs claimed right-handed pitcher Jason Berken off waivers from the Orioles, and he will be slotted into the rotation. Berken, 28, was 5-6 with a 3.50 ERA in 26 starts for Triple-A Norfolk, walking 39 and striking out 98 over 144 innings. He had a 1.35 ERA in four April starts, and finished well, compiling a 3.00 ERA (12 earned runs over 36 innings) in six August starts. Berken did make a relief appearance for the Orioles in May but was optioned back to the Minor Leagues. He was the Orioles’ sixth-round pick in 2006.
To make room on the Cubs roster, they placed right-handed pitcher Blake Parker on the 60-day disabled list with a bone contusion in his right elbow. Parker had been sidelined earlier this season with a stress reaction in his elbow.
– Carrie Muskat
