Cubs activate Tauchman and newly-acquired relief pitcher

CHICAGO — The Cubs have activated Mike Tauchman to begin the second half and transferred starting pitcher Jordan Wicks to the long-term IL.

Tauchman was in the middle of his second-best offensive season of his career when he was sidelined by a groin injury.

He is not in the lineup Friday as the Cubs open the second half at home against the Diamondbacks.

To make room on the roster, the club optioned outfielder Alex Canario back to Iowa.

Hoyer and company announced Friday that they also moved Jordan Wicks to the 60-day IL.

He suffered an oblique injury June 15 during his first start back from suffering another injury.

Moving him to the 60-day IL created a 40-man roster spot and relief pitcher Jesus Tinoco was activated.

He was traded for cash from the Royals earlier this week. Tinoco has a 8.10 ERA in limited innings so far this year.

The Cubs, 47-51, look to climb in the Wild Card standings over the next six games against the Diamondbacks and Brewers at home.

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