No Coke! Cubs to send out lefty in pitching-staff shuffle

The Phil Coke era didn’t last long. The veteran left-hander is being designated for assignment by the Cubs to help create roster room as the team shuffles its pitching staff again.

Left-hander Tsuyoshi Wada (groin) is to be activated from the disabled list to start Wednesday against the San Diego Padres in the spot vacated by lefty Travis Wood, who moved to the bullpen.

Outfielder Junior Lake is expected to join the roster for Tuesday’s series opener, with right-hander Brian Schlitter optioned back to AAA Iowa as the Cubs get their bench back to full strength.

Coke, who was signed to a $2.25-million deal in February, had a 6.30 ERA in 16 appearances. Lefties were 7-for-23 (.304) against him.

The Cubs are one of only three teams in the majors who have used only five starters this season. When Wada (4-4, 3.25 in 13 starts as a rookie last year) starts Wednesday, that list will be down to just the Milwaukee Brewers and Detroit Tigers.