The Cubs made yet another roster move Tuesday, sending infielder/outfielder Eric Patterson to Class AAA Iowa and recalling outfielder Matt Murton from Iowa.
The move was not totally unexpected, and it accomplishes several things. Murton is a corner outfielder with on-base ability. Patterson is more of a second baseman who can play the outfield.
During the past few days, manager Lou Piniella has complained that his team has been short of right-handed hitters, with left fielder Alfonso Soriano on the disabled list with a broken left hand. Murton is a right-handed hitter, while Patterson bats left-handed.
Finally, the move allows Piniella to move Reed Johnson back to center field, where he's more comfortable. Johnson, a right-handed batter, can platoon with Jim Edmonds in center and also get the rest Piniella says he needs to be effective as a leadoff man.
RAYS 3, CUBS 2: RHP Ryan Dempster labored through five creditable innings, giving up one run, but Cubs batters couldn't capitalize against Tampa Bay LHP Scott Kazmir or completely get to the Rays bullpen. Dempster gave up six hits and one run, a homer to Cliff Floyd. Neal Cotts (0-1) gave up two runs in relief of Dempster. Reed Johnson tried to bunt with two outs in the ninth with men on first and third but was thrown out to end the game.
