The Chicago Cubs have traded right-handed reliever Michael Rucker to the Philadelphia Phillies for cash considerations. Rucker, who was drafted by the Cubs in 2016, made his MLB debut in 2021 and played a total of 96 games for the team, finishing with a 4.96 ERA and a 5-2 pitching record.
The Phillies have acquired reliever Michael Rucker from the Cubs in exchange for cash and designated Andrew Bellatti for assignment to open a spot on the 40-man roster. Rucker, who has pitched at the MLB level in the past three years, brings arm strength and reasonable peripheral numbers to the Phillies. Meanwhile, Bellatti, who had a successful 2022 season, will be traded or placed on waivers by the Phillies.
The Chicago Cubs have sent Mike Tauchman and Roenis Elias to minor league camp, while Javier Assad has made the Opening Day bullpen. Catcher Luis Torrens is likely to make the team, offering right-handed power off the bench and the ability to play in the infield in addition to catching. Lefty Brandon Hughes may start the season on the IL, making Ryan Borucki's spot on the team more likely. Michael Rucker is a lock for the bullpen, while Mark Leiter Jr and Tyler Duffey are among the guys on the fence. Rowan Wick is likely to hit waivers at some point, opening up a 40-man spot.