Former closer Nathan joins Cubs bullpen

MILWAUKEE — The Cubs added another piece to the bullpen on Sunday when veteran right-hander Joe Nathan joined the team.

Nathan, 41, had been on a Minor League rehab assignment, recovering from Tommy John surgery. He made one appearance last year for the Tigers on April 6, threw four pitches and that was it. He signed as a free agent with the Cubs in May and was immediately placed on the 60-day disabled list.

In 11 games at Double-A Tennessee and Triple-A Iowa combined, he gave up four earned runs on three hits and five walks over 9 1/3 innings, striking out nine. Right-hander Adam Warren was optioned to Iowa to make room for Nathan.

“The velocity is solid and the break has gotten better on the breaking ball, better form on the breaking ball,” Cubs manager Joe Maddon said on Saturday. “He did his 30 days [for the rehab assignment], and it sounds like he’s ready to rock and roll and he’ll be here.”

Nathan, who has 377 career …

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