Isn't there a rule about waiting 10 (?) days after sending him down before he can be recalled? Also, Counsell mentioned his age/relative experience and calling an MLB game versus calling games in the Milb.
Sean Newcomb was DFA'd by Boston. Could the Cubs take a flyer on him, at least for a short term patch? This year, he has a 25% K rate and 10% BB rate. As a starter, he never pitched past the 5th, but he was pretty solid as a reliever.
While I'm fine with Happ leading off, I also don't think it would be a horrible idea to take him out of the leadoff spot (especially with no rehab ABs prior to his return) until he gets his swing back (or for a few games).
Small sample size, but the Reds lineup absolutely rakes against Rea. Quick math and they are 20 for 61 with 5 players hitting HRs. Take out TJ Friedl's 0 for 11, and the lineup is 20 for 50 against Rea.
Hopefully that was the "old Colin Rea", and we get the "New and Improved Colin Rea" today.