Cubs' Nelson Velazquez: Optioned to Triple-A level

Velazquez was optioned to Triple-A Iowa by the Cubs on Thursday, Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune reports.

Velazquez drew 206 plate appearances on the North Side of Chicago last season, but he batted just .205/.286/.373 and is now on the outside looking in for a regular role after the club increased payroll with several significant signings over the winter.