James McDonald
SP FA
Sun 3/30/14 3:57 PM

Cubs placed RHP James McDonald on the 60-day disabled list with right shoulder tendinitis. McDonald downplayed his shoulder injury a couple weeks ago, but obviously it's more serious than he let on. Given that he battled shoulder issues last year, as well, it's no surprise that the Cubs are playing it safe.

James McDonald
SP FA
Tue 3/18/14 4:53 PM

James McDonald told reporters on Tuesday that he is merely battling shoulder tendinitis. McDonald was lifted from a Cactus League appearance on Monday after experiencing discomfort in his right shoulder. Tendinitis is nothing major, but McDonald also had shoulder problems last season and wound up posting a 5.76 ERA in 29 2/3 innings with the Pirates. He's doubtful to be a reliable rotation option this year for the Cubs.

James McDonald
SP FA
Mon 3/17/14 4:59 PM

James McDonald was diagnosed with right shoulder soreness. This after he left Monday's Cactus League appearance after throwing just two pitches. It's a troubling development given McDonald's past shoulder issues.

James McDonald
SP FA
Mon 3/17/14 4:23 PM

James McDonald left Monday's Cactus League start with an apparent injury. McDonald left the mound with a trainer after his second pitch sailed to the backstop. This would seem to indicate a possible arm issue, but that's just speculation for now. The Cubs should pass along an update soon.

James McDonald
SP FA
Fri 3/7/14 11:09 PM

James McDonald was much better in his second Cactus League start for the Cubs, tossing a pair of scoreless innings in a losing effort against the Angels on Friday. McDonald who had a brutal debut last week, allowed just one hit in his two frames. While he remains highly-talented, his consistency the remainder of the spring could be the deciding factor on whether he wins a spot on the Opening Day roster.

James McDonald
SP FA
Fri 2/28/14 9:41 PM

James McDonald had an underwhelming Cactus League debut with the Cubs on Friday, allowing six runs on three hits and three walks in only one inning of work. McDonald surrendered a pair of home runs in the forgettable outing, including a grand slam to Mike Trout. The once highly-touted prospect is expected to compete for a spot in the Cubs rotation this spring, but he certainly hasn't done anything to earn that spot just yet.

James McDonald
SP FA
Thu 2/13/14 3:10 PM

Cubs signed RHP James McDonald to a one-year, $1 million contract. It was originally reported as a minor league deal, but the 29-year-old right-hander actually got some guaranteed money. He will compete for a spot in the Cubs' rotation this spring after flaming out with the Pirates in 2013. McDonald owns a 4.20 career ERA.

James McDonald
SP FA
Fri 1/31/14 4:17 PM

Cubs signed RHP James McDonald to a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training. McDonald made just six starts for the Pirates last season, posting a 5.76 ERA while also battling shoulder issues. He flashed plenty of upside for them from 2011-12, though, posting a 4.21 ERA while striking out 293 over 342 frames. McDonald should get a shot to compete for a rotation spot with the Cubs but could wind up in the bullpen. It's a solid no-risk move for Chicago.

James McDonald
SP FA
Sat 9/14/13 1:34 PM

James McDonald refused his assignment to Triple-A Indianapolis and has elected to become a free agent. It was somewhat surprising to see McDonald go unclaimed on waivers after he was designated for assignment last week, but now any team is free to sign him without being on the hook for his remaining salary this season. Still just 28-years-old, there should be several teams willing to take him on as a reclamation project.

James McDonald
SP FA
Fri 9/13/13 8:31 AM

Pirates sent RHP James McDonald outright to Triple-A Indianapolis. It's a tad surprising that McDonald cleared waivers after being designated for assignment, as he still has plenty of talent in spite of how poorly he's pitched since last year's All-Star break. Evidently no one wanted to pick up what remained of his $3.025 million price tag for the rest of the season when they knew he'll be non-tendered over the winter.