The Cubs have recalled OF Tony Campana from Iowa
Campana takes the roster spot that was left open by Ryan Dempster’s move to the DL, which is most likely because reports have Marlon Byrd on the trading block. It’s hard not to see Campana’s call-up as a sign that Byrd’s departure is imminent.
Regardless, I’ll confess that I’m happy to see Campana back in the big leagues. He’s not a good hitter at all, although I’m pleased to report that he hit his first professional outside-the-park homer this season down in Iowa (you may recall his inside-the-park homer for the Cubs last year, which was his first professional homer of any kind). But he is fast as they come, he’s a terrific base stealer, and his defense in the outfield is by all accounts impeccable. Carrying a guy like him – essentially a pinch-runner and defensive replacement – is a real luxury for an NL team, especially one that isn’t any good. But what he does he does extremely well, and he’s a lot of fun to watch. And let’s face it, the way Byrd has been playing, even Campana’s offense is a clear upgrade….
