Cubs roster move: Ben Brown recalled, Ethan Roberts optioned

Photo by Matt Dirksen/Chicago Cubs/Getty ImagesThe Cubs are using Ryan Brasier as an opener for tonight’s game against the Royals.

And, they have today recalled Ben Brown from Triple-A Iowa. Brown is expected to follow Brasier and be the “bulk guy” for tonight, hopefully throwing five innings or so.

You know of Brown’s struggles. In his last start for Iowa, Brown threw five shutout innings and struck out five. He threw 62 pitches, so perhaps could throw 70-75 tonight. That last outing was July 13, so he should be well rested.

To make room for Brown on the 26-man active roster, right-handed reliever Ethan Roberts was optioned back to Iowa. Roberts, in 10 appearances in two stints with the Cubs,…