Chicago Cubs pitcher Ryan Zeferjahn adjusts to new role in bullpen

Since his acquisition from the Los Angeles Angels at the trade deadline, Ryan Zeferjahn has struggled to replicate his earlier performance in the Chicago Cubs bullpen. The right-hander has recorded a 5.79 ERA over 9 1/3 innings with the organization, surrendering seven runs and four walks while striking out nine batters. Zeferjahn attributed his recent struggles to minor mechanical inconsistencies and noted he is working to better utilize his full four-pitch mix. Manager Craig Counsell expressed confidence in the pitcher's development, emphasizing that the team will continue to provide him with high-leverage opportunities to find his rhythm. Pitching coach Tommy Hottovy advised Zeferjahn to prioritize mixing his secondary pitches, specifically his sinker and slider, to complement his primary sweeper and four-seamer. Zeferjahn’s most recent outing showed improvement, as he struck out two batters across 1 1/3 innings of work.

• 12:45 AMYahoo Sports — Chicago Cubs reliever Ryan Zeferjahn looking to make the impact the team envisioned at the trade deadline