Cubs lose both split-squad games today and make roster moves

Although the Cubs had 11 hits in their game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, they lost 12-2 in the split squad game.  Michael Brenly hit a home run and Matt Szczur hit an RBI single.

For their other split squad game, the Cubs lost 7-5 to the Colorado Rockies.  Junior Lake hit a 3-run homer and Bryan LaHair was 3 for 5.

Ryan Dempster started in the Mesa game today (photo from Boys of Spring/John Antonoff)

Darwin Barney was sidelined as a precautionary measure with tightness in left side, which was something he felt during batting practice today.  His status is day-to-day.

Blake DeWitt was pulled from the Cubs-Rockies game after being hit by a pitch in the right hand while batting.

Ian Stewart was sidelined with a sore right quad and is also day-to-day.  On a brighter note, Carlos Marmol settled down from his recent appearances and pitched a scoreless inning in relief today.  

Alberto Cabrera, Jeff Beliveau, John Gaub, and Josh Vitters were optioned to Triple-A Iowa today, while Junior Lake and Matt Szczur were optioned to Double-A Tennessee.  Jason Jaramillo was sent to minor league camp. The spring roster is at 48 players.

Tomorrow the Cubs will play the San Francisco Giants at 3:05 pm CST, where Matt Garza will start.  3 more weeks until Opening Day!