Cubs' John Lackey: Headed to DL with stiff shoulder

Lackey (shoulder) is headed to the 15-day DL, MLB.com's Carrie Muskat reports.

Analysis:

The move is not official, but it should be made prior to Friday's game, as the Cubs have a couple bullpen arms coming up from the minors. According to Muskat, the move is precautionary, and the Cubs are able to take such precautions thanks to a 13-game lead in the NL Central. Mike Montgomery is scheduled to start Saturday at Coors Field, with Trevor Cahill slated to back him up in that start, as Montgomery likely won't be able to log more than three or four innings since he is not stretched out. Look for Montgomery and Cahill to continue to handle what would have been Lackey's workload for as long as he is out. He is eligible to return at the end of the month.