Chicago Cubs Baseball

Sean Marshall, who was a darkhorse for a starting spot in the Chicago Cubs rotation this spring, was recalled from Triple A-Iowa today.

Marshall replaced left-handed reliever Carmen Pignatiello, who will take Marshall’s spot on the minor league roster. Marshall is expected to fill in as the lone lefty in the Cubs bullpen. Expected left-hander reliever Scott (Steve) Eyre remains on the disabled list with a tender elbow.

Marshall primarily served as the parent Cubs fifth starter the last two seasons, compiling a 13-17 record in 45 games. Last season, Marshall was recalled in May and finished the year 7-8 with a 3.92 ERA.

Pignatiello was thought to be the Cubs left-handed answer from the bullpen, but faltered in his only two appearances. Pignatiello pitched just two-thirds of an inning this year, but was ineffective in both showings.

In an 8-2 loss to Milwaukee, Pignatiello surrendered two hits and an earned run while recording just two outs. On Monday against the Pirates, Pignatiello failed to record an out while walking two.

The call-up of Marshall will give Chicago Cubs manager Lou Piniella a well-rested arm out of the bullpen. Six Cub pitchers were used in Monday’s 10-8, 12-inning win over Pittsburgh.

Marshall’s only appearance happened last Friday in a three-inning stint against Round Rock. The left-hander pitched three hitless innings, while recording six strikeouts and registering no walks.