The move seemingly paves the way for the Cubs to acquire lefty Drew Pomeranz from the Mariners, as first reported by The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal. That deal isn’t official yet, but Wicks removal from the active roster clears a spot ahead of Tuesday’s series opener against the Dodgers.

After giving up five runs in 9 2/3 innings in two starts for Iowa, Wicks was moved to the pen for his last appearances and pitched three perfect innings with five strikeouts. He’s set to work in middle relief for now, though if he does go long this weekend, he might quickly be swapped out for a fresh arm.

Wicks has a chance at earning the fifth spot in the Cubs’ rotation if Ben Brown continues to struggle in his audition as a starter. However, the Cubs are going to want to see a better effort out of Wicks, who also walked two batters and only struck out three against the Pirates’ Triple-A affiliate.

Wicks, 25, will not open the season in the rotation but instead get work in Triple-A with Iowa. Morgan also was sent down to the PCL, and he could be an up-and-down option for the Cubs whenever the team needs an extra reliever.