Cubs drop formal protest over toe-tap delivery of Nats closer
The Chicago Cubs dropped their protest over Washington closer Sean Doolittle’s pitching delivery.
Cubs manager Joe Maddon said Saturday he believed the left-handed Doolittle was tapping his right toe on the ground before coming to the plate. Maddon clarified Sunday his protest was done to “protect” Cubs reliever Carl Edwards Jr., who was informed in spring training that his delivery, which had a similar toe-tap, was illegal.
White Sox: Outfielder Eloy Jimenez
(high right ankle sprain), out since April 26, is 7-for-22 (.318) with one home run in five rehabilitation games with Triple-a Charlotte. No decision has been made on when Chicago’s top prospect will rejoin the team.
Tigers: Detroit trailed Oakland 5-3 in the bottom of the seventh inning at Comerica Park when play was called after a 1-hour, 41-minute rain delay. The game was suspended until Sept. 6, the teams’ next scheduled meeting.
Indians: Right-hander Mike Clevinger (upper back strain), out since April 7 and expected to miss several months, threw a 35-pitch bullpen session and could be activated as soon as June 7, manager Terry Francona said.
Astros: Outfielder George Springer, the American League home run leader with 17, left Houston’s loss at Boston with a stiff lower back.