Theo Epstein continues to issue public support for Cubs manager Dale Sveum.
Chicago is 35-45 and more than 15 games back in the National League Central.
"Managers oftentimes take heat for things that are beyond their control," Epstein said. "We've given him an imperfect roster. That's just the reality. We have a lot of talented players, but it's an imperfect roster, so he's oftentimes put in situations where he's got to choose between imperfect solutions.
"I'm sure he didn't necessarily use Marmol in certain situations, but there comes a point where other guys need rest or had already been used or he's got to look a day ahead, and he has more information than you guys have. He was put in situations where he had to use (Marmol) at certain times.
"It's unfair to, using only partial information, jump to conclusions about Dale's managerial abilities based on using Marmol in a certain spot. Dale is steady at the helm of his ship and has done a nice job."