Chicago Cubs to have new pitcher Jason Berken in rotation for final weeks of season – MLB News
The Chicago Cubs will have Jason Berken in the rotation for the final weeks of the ongoing season as the pitcher braced himself for the challenges ahead. On Saturday, September 8, Berken expressed his excitement with the new task endowed upon him and the fact that he will be an asset for the club.
It was on Friday that the Cubs decided to claim off waivers for this right-handed pitcher, inducting another strong arm in the rotation. From what it clearly seems, he will fill in for the Cubs’ ace Jeff Samardzija as he has reaches his inning limit for this season. Samardzija will now be shut down, creating space for the 28-year-old Berken.
His first appearance will be against the Pittsburgh Pirates as the Cubs will have a three-game season at home. The debutant seems all excited to fill in this role at a time when all eyes are on him given the Cubs endeavour to induct him in the rotation.
"It's a pretty awesome opportunity," Berken said Saturday. "I'm pretty excited. I had a pretty good year in Triple-A this year, and the work paid off in the end. I'm from the Midwest and Green Bay, and I grew up watching Cubs games."
He does not conceal his love for the Cubs –a team that he has remained fan of, admitting he is ‘pretty diehard'. With 3.50 ERA, he appeared in 26 games at Triple-A Norfolk, having a 5-6 record. In a total of 144 innings, he had 98 strike-outs coupled with 39 walks.
With the latest challenge and venture in his way, Berken seems all confident. He is anticipating a good time and feels he will do good.
"I think the change of scenery and being up here gives you a little bit extra for the last month," Berken said. "I anticipate throwing well. I'm feeling good."
With the season almost nearing an end for the Cubs, it will be interesting to see how Berken performs just when they will need powerful arms in the rotation for the upcoming season.
The Cubs will be looking to end the season on a high note to build up some momentum for the off-season and rebuild the team to become more competitive next year.
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