Mike Montgomery declined to compare his potential to that of Cubs trade target Andrew Miller.
But even though there was a Yankees scout in attendance Friday night at Miller Park, there’s a distinct possibility the Cubs will lean on their newly-acquired left-hander to make the most impact of their bullpen additions before the Aug. 1 trade deadline.
“(Montgomery) has all kinds of potential,” manager Joe Maddon said. “When you see Andrew Miller, did you see when he pitched in Boston a couple years ago? He wasn’t as polished as he looks right now. I know a big part of (Montgomery’s) ascension has been better command. Out of the bullpen the velocity is back to where it had been. He has a very good curve and changeup.
“Typically in a situation like this for me, part of the process is to be patient. Don’t expect too much too soon. But if you do everything well, this guy can grow into something very special, we believe. There are some parallels (with Miller).”
Maddon noticed that Montgomery, who was acquired from the Mariners in a four-player trade Wednesday, seemed more comfortable during a 15-minute conversation than their last chat in the spring of 2014 when the pitcher was in the Rays organization with Maddon managing.
“I can see how much he has grown,” Maddon said. “It’s very obvious.”
Montgomery, 27, carefully separated himself from fellow left-hander Miller, 31, whom the Cubs covet if the Yankees decide to trade some of their top assets.
“(Miller) is unbelievable at what he does,” Montgomery said. “We’re different types of pitchers. I don’t necessarily like to compare that much.”
Roster shuffle: Outfielder Albert Almora Jr. was optioned to Triple-A Iowa to make room for center fielder Dexter Fowler but left a favorable impression on Maddon during his 61/2-week stay in which he batted .265 and played solid defense.
“He shall return,” Maddon said.
Almora added: “I’ve played like I belong. That’s what I feel like.”
Reliever Spencer Patton was optioned to Iowa to make room for Montgomery.
The Cubs are expected to make a decision Saturday on reliever Joe Nathan, whose 30-day minor-league rehab assignment expired Friday.
Schedule change: ESPN picked up the Cubs’ game with the Cardinals on Aug. 14, which will start at 7:08 p.m.
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