Chicago Cubs

Cubs option Russell to Triple-A after completing suspension

Updated Mar. 4, 2020 5:07 p.m. ET

CHICAGO (AP) — The Chicago Cubs have optioned shortstop Addison Russell to Triple-A Iowa after he completed his 40-game suspension for violating Major League Baseball's domestic violence policy.

To make room on the 40-man roster, the Cubs transferred closer Brandon Morrow (elbow) to the 60-day injured list Thursday.

Russell was eligible to rejoin the Cubs when they open a weekend series against St. Louis at home Friday. But manager Joe Maddon said Tuesday in Seattle the team wanted to give him more time at Triple-A to get ready.

Russell was suspended last fall after a series of allegations made by his ex-wife. He was working out in Arizona, playing in extended spring training games and meeting with a counselor twice a week, before joining Iowa last week.