PT TODAY: Wesneski claims rotation spot in Chicago

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Cubs

NEWS: Chicago announced that RHP Hayden Wesneski will open the year as the team’s fifth starter. In a related move, RHP Adrian Sampson was optioned to AAA-Iowa.

IMPACT: Medium

BHQ SPIN: Wesneski and Sampson entered spring training as the top candidates for the vacant fifth starter role along with Javier Assad. Over the course of spring training, Wesneski emerged as the top option, putting together an impressive stat line (17 IP, 2.12 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 22 K, 6 BB). Meanwhile, Sampson struggled mightily (17.2 IP, 8.66 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 16 K, 5 BB). Wesneski will likely be given a leash in the rotation at least until Kyle Hendricks (shoulder) is ready to return from the IL in May or June. However, it is...

Almost!

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