Cubs DFA Winkler, call up red-hot Hermosillo originally appeared on NBC Sports Chicago
Outfielder Michael Hermosillo’s offensive tear with Triple-A Iowa has earned him a shot in the big leagues.
The Cubs called up Hermosillo from Iowa prior to Tuesday’s game against the Reds. In a corresponding move, struggling reliever Dan Winkler has been designated for assignment.
Hermosillo has put together a strong season with Iowa. The 26-year-old batted .310/.448/.600 in 42 games, hitting 10 home runs and 29 RBIs.
The Cubs signed Hermosillo, an Ottawa Township High School grad and former University of Illinois football recruit, to a minor-league deal last November.
The outfielder was drafted by the Angels in 2013 (28th round) and was once a top 20 prospect in Los Angeles’ system. He made his MLB debut in 2018 and holds a career .188/.288/.287 slash line in 56 big league games.
Winkler got off to a good start this season, holding a 0.76 ERA and 1.18 WHIP in 26 appearances through June 15.
The right-hander has struggled since, turning in an 11.81 ERA over his last 21 appearances (16 innings). He gave up six earned runs without recording an out last Friday against the Marlins.
He allowed three earned runs Monday against the Reds while getting one out in his final appearance with the Cubs.
The Cubs also announced Kyle Ryan was outrighted and elected free agency. The Cubs DFA’d him last week.
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