Cubs’ Marcus Stroman nears return, Jason Heyward to IL

Cubs right-hander Marcus Stroman threw a bullpen on Tuesday. File photo.The Cubs placed outfielder Jason Heyward on the injured list Tuesday, making him the third Cub to go on the IL without an injury designation, which usually means a COVID-19 related stint.

Heyward joined starting pitcher Marcus Stroman and reliever David Robertson. But Stroman is nearing a return from the IL. He was cleared and threw a bullpen on Tuesday, according to Cubs manager David Ross. Stroman could slot in as soon as the next turn in the rotation.

“We’ll see how he presents tomorrow,” Ross said Tuesday afternoon.

Stroman and Robertson, who have been on the IL since early last week, played catch together while…