Cubs place closer on 15-day injured list with elbow inflammation

The pitcher, 26, worked the ninth inning of Monday's 5-4 win. The manager and training staff visited him during the inning; he persuaded them he could continue but later reported symptoms. "You have to take the feedback and make a decision," the manager said.

" The closer had felt soreness after his previous outing against the Rockies the prior week but said he felt better before Monday's game. He allowed one baserunner before striking out the next three batters, with his fastball reaching 99 mph.

Team outlook Team officials described the injury as potentially short-term and said they placed him on the list out of caution. No MRI is scheduled immediately. "Out of an abundance of caution, it made sense to put him on the IL," the president of baseball operations said.

" The team recalled a right-handed pitcher from Triple-A to fill the roster spot. The bullpen has no designated replacement, and left-hander Hoby Milner is among those who could receive save opportunities. The team also removed its starter from Tuesday's game after he experienced a right-hand cramp.

Officials said they would monitor his condition before his next start.