Cubs option Wuertz to minors

Jul 11, 2008 - 4:31 PM CHICAGO (Ticker) -- The Chicago Cubs on Friday optioned reliever Michael Wuertz to Class AAA Iowa of the Pacific Coast League.

Wuertz's demotion comes one day after he surrendered four runs and four hits in 1 1/3 innings against the Cincinnati Reds.

Wuertz, who has allowed runs in four of his last six appearances, is 1-1 with a 3.55 ERA in 37 outings this season.

To replace Wuertz, the Cubs recalled pitcher Kevin Hart from Iowa. In two previous stints with the Cubs this season, Hart has gone 2-1 with a 6.62 ERA.