Brewers designate Opening Day starter Chacin for assignment

The Milwaukee Brewers have designated right-hander Jhoulys Chacin for assignment, the club announced Saturday.

Chacin started on Opening Day for the Brewers this season. However, the 31-year-old has posted a 5.79 ERA in 19 starts in 2019.

Milwaukee started Chacin in Game 7 of the NLCS in 2018 against the Los Angeles Dodgers. He lasted only two innings and the Dodgers ended up winning the do-or-die clincher to advance to the World Series to face the Boston Red Sox.

Chacin emerged as the Brewers' staff ace last season after going 15-8 with a 3.50 ERA over 192 2/3 innings. He's also pitched for the San Diego Padres, Los Angeles Angels, Atlanta Braves, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Colorado Rockies in his 11-year career.

The Brewers also selected infielder/outfielder Cory Spangenberg from Triple-A San Antonio and optioned outfielder Ben Gamel.

Milwaukee (66-62) enters Saturday's action 3 1/2 games behind the St. Louis Cardinals for first place in the NL Central.