Cubs will keep versatile Christopher Morel at Triple-A Iowa for now

Barring an damage, a major-league promotion for versatile Christopher Morel should await some time.

The Cubs’ roster, lastly balanced with 4 outfielders, a secure infield and two wholesome catchers, doesn’t present ample taking part in alternatives for Morel, who’s batting .343 with 11 house runs, 28 RBI and a 1.232 OPS in 117 plate appearances at Triple-A Iowa.

‘‘When there’s a path to taking part in lots, I feel there’s no query he’ll be up right here,’’ president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer stated Friday. ‘‘His rallies sparked us final 12 months. I do know he can have an effect, however we need to make certain he’s coming and taking part in day-after-day.

‘‘The roster is absolutely balanced proper now, and hopefully we get [catcher] Yan [Gomes] again quickly.’’

Morel, 23, offered a spark early final season however tailed off and struck out 137 instances in 425 plate appearances with the Cubs in 2022. He has cut up his time in Iowa between third base and all three outfield positions.

Justin’s justification

Left-hander Justin Steele restricted the Marlins to 1 run in seven innings for the second time this season. He has allowed two earned runs or fewer in 14 consecutive begins — courting to July 22, 2022 — tying him with Braves left-hander Max Fried for the longest lively streak within the majors.

Steele additionally didn’t stroll a batter, marking the sixth consecutive outing he has issued two walks or fewer.

‘‘He is aware of what he’s doing,’’ supervisor David Ross stated. ‘‘He is aware of how one can assault the hitters. And he’s coming proper at you. It doesn’t really feel like anybody is in rhythm with him.’’

All in regards to the group

The promotion of first baseman Matt Mervis from Iowa will relegate veteran Eric Hosmer to a part-time function.

‘‘He’s right here to win, right here to help, right here to assist,’’ Ross stated of Hosmer, who was batting .250 with a .363 slugging proportion. ‘‘He’s knowledgeable by and thru and desires what’s greatest for the group.’’

Third baseman Edwin Rios was optioned to Iowa to get extra taking part in time. Rios had solely 25 plate appearances with the Cubs and performed solely two innings at third base.

Damage replace

Pitcher Kyle Hendricks (strained proper shoulder) will throw a bullpen session earlier than the sport Saturday. Reliever Codi Heuer (Tommy John surgical procedure) will make his first rehab look Saturday for Iowa. Gomes (concussion) carried out baseball actions earlier than the sport Friday.