7/15 Marmol no longer closer

Carlos Marmol did get a chance to save Friday’s game, but couldn’t get the final out. Now, he’s sidelined to get a chance to work on his mechanics in hopes of regaining his slider. Mike Quade said the right-hander has lost his job as the closer for now.

“Hopefully when I get back, I’ll be the old Marmol,” Marmol said.

Quade met with Marmol, pitching coach Mark Riggins and others, including pitchers Kerry Wood and Sean Marshall, before Friday’s game against the Marlins, which the Cubs won, 2-1. Quade wanted to make sure Wood and Marshall were prepared to close if needed. The switch was prompted by Thursday’s outing when Marmol failed to retire a batter in the ninth, walking four and giving up a hit. All five baserunners scored in Florida’s 6-3 come from behind win.

Marmol asked Quade for a chance to pitch Friday and said he felt better on the mound.

“I appreciate what he did,” Marmol said. “It’s tough. I’ve got to keep working and hopefully I can get better.”

He’ll get that chance in the next few days.

“Relievers just don’t have the side time and the time to work on stuff that starters do,” Quade said. “You almost have to say you’re going to give him a couple of days.”

– Carrie Muskat