After the Cubs’ 9-8 extra-innings loss at Detroit on Saturday, right-handed pitcher Alec Mills went to the athletic training staff with back tightness.
On Sunday, the Cubs placed Mills on the 10-day injured list (lower back strain). In a corresponding move, they selected right-hander Tommy Nance from Triple-A Iowa.
“They don't want to push it right now, this part of the season” Ross said, relaying the trainers’ evaluation of Mills’ injury. “He's had it a little bit in the past, and it’s something they want to get on top of early.”
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Mills was charged with three runs in 1 2/3 innings Saturday. It was his first outing in 10 days.
Nance will be available in Sunday’s rubber match. He has a 1.50 ERA in three relief appearances (six innings) for Iowa this season.
“Has got real velocity,” Ross said. “He’s been probably throwing as good as anybody down there. The breaking stuff’s real. … Somebody that I think can get significant outs for us.”
The Cubs used seven relievers on Saturday, putting bullpen depth at a premium. If called upon, Nance will be making his MLB debut.