José Quintana Will Start Tuesday with ‘Little Bit of Leash’

David Ross announced prior to Monday’s game in Pittsburgh that José Quintana will be activated Tuesday and will make the start against the Pirates. This is a little bit of a surprise because the lefty is just coming off the IL and wasn’t stretched out prior to experiencing a little lat discomfort.

https://twitter.com/mlbastian/status/1308144282352734210?s=21

Ross said Quintana will have “a little bit of leash” when it comes to his usage, so expect a relatively low pitch count. This basically amounts to a bullpen game, but it keeps the Cubs from having to make another roster move in order to give Adbert Alzolay a start. Unless there’s another injury that pops up, the Cubs will have to option or DFA someone in order to make room for Quintana.

Update: Hey, would you look at that? Ildemaro Vargas has been placed on the IL with a right hamstring strain. The Cubs will play with 27 on the roster Monday, then Quintana will take the open spot. Interesting how that all worked out, what with lefty Josh Osich being optioned Sunday to make room for José Martínez.