Cubs activate Michael Soroka off IL, will use RHP as reliever

PITTSBURGH — The Chicago Cubs activated right-hander Michael Soroka from the 15-day injured list before Monday night’s game against Pittsburgh.

Soroka will be used as a reliever and worked two innings out of the bullpen in the Cubs’ 4-0 victory. The Cubs acquired Soroka from Washington at the trade deadline with the plan he would be a starter.

However, Soroka pitched just two innings in his Cubs’ debut against Cincinnati on Aug. 4 and left with a right shoulder strain. Soroka made on a rehab appearance with Triple-A Iowa and allowed one run in 2⅓ innings.

Soroka is 3-8 this season with a 4.86 ERA in 17 starts.

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Right-hander Ben Brown was optioned to Iowa in a corresponding move. He is 5-8 with a 5.92 ERA in 25 games, including 15 starts.

Cubs closer Daniel Palencia threw off the mound for the first time since going on the IL on Sept. 8 with a right shoulder strain. He has converted 22 of 25 save opportunities and has a 3.00 ERA in 52 games.

Designated hitter Seiya Suzuki was not in the lineup Monday because of bronchitis.

Catcher Miguel Amaya began a rehab assignment with Iowa. A left ankle sprain has sidelined him since Aug. 14, and he has played in only one major league game since May 25 after sustaining a strained oblique early in the season.

The Cubs hold the first wild card position in the National League.