Cubs upgrade bench with trade for Kemp

ST. LOUIS -- The Cubs increased the flexibility of their bench ahead of Wednesday's Trade Deadline, announcing the acquisition of utility man Tony Kemp from the Astros in exchange for catcher Martín Maldonado.

Chicago obtained Maldonado earlier this month from Kansas City for lefty Mike Montgomery, helping the Cubs make up for the temporary absence of All-Star catcher Willson Contreras while he was on the injured list with a foot issue. With Contreras and backup Victor Caratini now active, Maldonado was underutilized by Chicago in a three-catcher setup that limited manager Joe Maddon's bench options.

In Kemp, the Cubs get a player capable of manning all three outfield positions, along with second base. Maddon has cycled through multiple players at second all season and one of the options, veteran Daniel Descalso, is currently on the 10-day IL with a left ankle injury. In 66 games for Houston this season, the 27-year-old Kemp hit .227 with seven home runs, 17 RBIs and a .725 OPS. He was designated for assignment by the Astros on Friday.

Highly regarded for his defensive and framing skills, Maldonado appeared in only four games with the Cubs.

The Cubs are also expected to add righty David Phelps to their active roster prior to Wednesday's game against the Cardinals. Chicago landed the reliever from the Blue Jays on Tuesday for pitching prospect Thomas Hatch.