Cubs Activate Shōta Imanaga, DFA Michael Fulmer

It was a good story while it lasted, but it looks as though veteran Michael Fulmer‘s second stint with the Cubs was over just after it started. Signed to a minors deal back in April after being designated for assignment by the Red Sox, Fulmer’s contract was selected last week when the Cubs needed a little help in the bullpen. He gave them three scoreless innings over two appearances against the Cardinals, but the team needed a roster spot for Shōta Imanaga‘s activation from the IL.

Imanaga’s return on Thursday should help both the rotation and the bullpen, and Fulmer was the odd man out for a unit that has been performing very well on the whole. Porter Hodge returned earlier this week and will continue building toward high-leverage innings, plus there’s a possibility that Colin Rea shifts into a relief role with the likely acquisition of another starter.

While it’s possible Fulmer opts to remain with the organization, he may be able to catch on with another team.