Ethan Roberts MLB News & Injury Updates

Roberts needed just 10 pitches (seven strikes) to retire the side in what was his first game action at any level since June 28. Cubs manager Craig Counsell hasn't provided word on the next steps for Roberts, but the right-hander may not need any further rehab appearances before returning from the 15-day injured list. MLB.com currently lists Roberts as its probable starter for Tuesday's game against the Tigers, though if he's activated for that contest, he would likely work just an inning or two before David Peterson takes over in bulk relief.

Roberts had been scheduled to throw off a mound a second time prior to the All-Star break, though it's unclear if that came to pass. The right-hander has been on the shelf since June 29 due to forearm inflammation and will eventually need to complete a rehab assignment before returning from the 15-day injured list.

Roberts has allowed five runs (four earned) over his last three appearances out of the Chicago bullpen. His recent struggles may have been linked to the forearm injury, and by going on the 15-day IL, he'll be shelved until at least after the All-Star break in mid-July. Gavin Hollowell was recalled from Triple-A Iowa to give the Cubs more depth out of the bullpen in Roberts' absence.

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Roberts was placed on the 15-day injured list April 14 due to a right middle finger laceration but was cleared to head out on a rehab assignment a week and a half later. Through his five appearances, Roberts has permitted one run while posting a 5:4 K:BB across five innings. He could be a candidate to return from the IL this weekend during the Cubs' three-game series versus the Rangers.

It's unclear what injury Roberts is dealing with, but it will cost him at least the next couple weeks of action. The right-hander has made three scoreless appearances out of the Cubs' bullpen this season.