CHICAGO — The Cubs fired hitting coach Gerald Perry after 2 1/2 seasons Sunday in an attempt to spark a sputtering offense that ranks among the National League’s worst.
Von Joshua was promoted from Triple-A Iowa to replace Perry.
Footnotes.
Eric Chavez will have back surgery June 23 and won’t return in 2009 for the Athletics. The six-time Gold Glove third baseman is on the 60-day disabled list because of a herniated disc and strained right forearm.
• Angels reliever Scot Shields will have season-ending surgery on his left knee Tuesday.
• Rangers closer Frank Francisco was put on the disabled list for the second time this season. He hasn’t pitched since June 3 because of shoulder stiffness.
• Twins third baseman Joe Crede was scratched from the lineup against the Cubs because of a stiff lower back.
• Orioles center fielder Adam Jones was scratched against the Braves because of a bruised left shin. The Associated Press
