8/20 Cubs claim Hinshaw

On Sunday, the Cubs claimed left-handed pitcher Alex Hinshaw off waivers from the Padres. Hinshaw was selected by the Padres on May 8, and went 1-1 with a 4.50 ERA in 31 relief appearances. It was his first big league action since 2009. He struck out 36 over 28 innings, and walked 20 before he was designated for assignment on Aug. 14.

For the season, the lefty limited hitters to a .217 batting average, including .196 by left-handed hitters. In 88 career Major League relief appearances with the Giants and Padres, Hinshaw is 3-2 with a 4.52 ERA. He was originally selected by the Giants in the 15th round of the 2005 Draft.

To make room on the 40-man roster, right-handed pitcher Arodys Vizcaino was transferred to the 60-day disabled list. Vizcaino, 21, was acquired from the Braves on July 30 in the four-player deal that sent Paul Maholm and Reed Johnson to Atlanta. He had Tommy John surgery in March but was expected to be ready for 2013 Spring Training.

– Carrie Muskat