Cubs Should Be Getting A Big Boost To Bullpen This Week

The Cubs bullpen had a rough stretch starting in Cincinnati about two weeks ago and the giant weakness of not having a closer was evident in their last home stand. But there’s some good news, as Pedro Strop should be back this week to help out the back end of the bullpen.

Strop’s been out since May 6, when he blew a save against the Marlins. It was eventually revealed that Strop had been dealing with a hamstring injury, so it’s definitely possible that it led to some of his struggles so far this season.

Strop missed three weeks last September with a similar hamstring injury and was also sidelined during spring training with a different hamstring injury.

Pedro Strop, one day after his bullpen session, said: “I’m ready.” Will have another mound workout this weekend and potentially a brief Minor League rehab assignment, but he says the hamstring is feeling great.

— Jordan Bastian (@MLBastian) May 23, 2019

Hopefully Strop’s leg issues are behind him, as he’ll be with Triple-A Iowa for a rehab assignment Tuesday.

Strop to start rehab Tuesday for Triple-A Iowa

— Mark Gonzales (@MDGonzales) May 27, 2019

The right-hander might only need one appearance in the minors before the Cubs re-activate him from the injured list.

Strop (hamstring) is with AAA Iowa for Tuesday rehab appearance. Might need only one. That would make him ready for St Louiszzzzzz.

— Gordon Wittenmyer (@GDubCub) May 27, 2019

Pedro Strop with Iowa for rehab appearance. Might only need one or two. So back soon

— Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiCubs) May 27, 2019

The Cubs have two more games against the Astros and then a day off before starting a weekend series at St. Louis.