Cubs call up Peralta to help struggling bullpen

CINCINNATI (AP) The Chicago Cubs have promoted right-hander Joel Peralta from the minors to help their bullpen for the start of a series at the Cincinnati Reds.

The Cubs signed the 40-year-old reliever this month after he was released by Seattle, where he was 1-0 with a 5.40 ERA. Chicago's bullpen struggled during a 1-6 slump last week. Manager Joe Maddon said Monday that Peralta will be a boost in the clubhouse as well, comparing it to having another coach to help the younger players.

Right-handed reliever Gerardo Concepcion was optioned to Triple-A Iowa. He gave up a run during a 6-1 loss to the Marlins on Sunday. The bullpen has been hit hard in Chicago's last four losses.

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