Jackson to 'pen; rookies to start Cubs' final series

CHICAGO -- Edwin Jackson will go to the bullpen, while rookies Eric Jokisch, Tsuyoshi Wada and Kyle Hendricks will start the final three games of the Cubs' season against the Brewers, respectively, beginning Friday.

Jackson (6-15, 6.38 ERA) has made one start since Aug. 20, and that was Friday, when he lasted just two-thirds of an inning against the Dodgers. The right-hander, who was sidelined with a right lat strain, has made 30 career relief appearances in his 292 games.

"He's a professional, he knows where he stands," Cubs manager Rick Renteria said Tuesday. "He says, 'I see what's happening, I get it.' He's been in this game a long time. He just wants to do his best for the club."

Being a reliever may be an odd switch. Jackson, who led the National League in losses last season, with 18, has a 10.46 ERA in the first inning of his starts this year, giving up 31 earned runs over 26 2/3 innings.

"It's just a different scenario," Renteria said. "It's not necessarily a situation where he's thinking about his start for three or four days. It's more of a, 'Hey, we need you in this moment, get up, get loose and get in there.' At least we have an opportunity in the next few days to see how he does and go from there."

Jokisch has made three relief appearances since he was called up to the big league team in early September. The lefty was 9-10 with a 3.58 ERA in 26 games at Triple-A Iowa.

Wada thought his season was done after Sept. 18, when he started against the Dodgers.

"The day after my last outing, I was told that if anything happened to a starter or injury or other circumstances, I was told to not shut it down and be mentally prepared if something happens," Wada said through interpreter Ryo Shinkawa.

"I feel I've been given another opportunity, and I'm going to try to finish strong and build my confidence with another good outing."

Wada threw a light side session Monday and will throw another Wednesday to prepare for Saturday's game at Miller Park.