JUST IN: Cubs add left-handed reliever star in trade with Rays
The Cubs have acquired left-handed reliever Jeff Belge from the Rays in exchange for left-handed pitcher Richard Lovelady, as reported by NBC Sports Chicago.
The Tampa Bay Rays have acquired LHP Richard Lovelady from the Chicago Cubs in exchange for LHP Jeff Belge.
To make room on the 40-Man roster, RHP Jacob Waguespack has been transferred to the 60-Day Injured List.
— Rays Communications (@RaysPR) May 18, 2024
Belge, aged 26, has been active in the minor leagues since 2019, gradually progressing within the Rays’ system to their Double-A team, where he has spent the past two seasons. In the current season, he has made 11 relief appearances, pitching for a total of 15 innings with a 4.20 ERA. During this time, he has recorded 17 strikeouts and eight walks, maintaining a 1.133 WHIP. Belge was initially drafted by the Red Sox in the 32nd round of the 2016 MLB entry draft.
On the other hand, Lovelady appeared in seven games for the Cubs this season. Across 5.2 innings pitched, he conceded five runs, resulting in a 7.94 ERA during his brief tenure with the team. He managed to strike out six batters while issuing two walks.