Chicago Cubs: Craig Counsell provides key pitching updates

Imagn Images

Chicago Cubs: Craig Counsell provides key pitching updates

Originally posted on ChiCitySports | By Alex Patt | Last updated Jul 8, 2026 9:48 AM ET

As the All Star break approaches, the Chicago Cubs hope to see some of their key injured pitchers return soon after. Cubs manager Craig Counsell provided updates on Edward Cabrera, Jameson Taillon, and Daniel Palencia on Tuesday afternoon.

Counsell mentioned Taillon (hamstring) is slated to make one more rehab start and is eyeing a return after the break, barring another pitcher going down and him needing to return sooner in a “limited” role. Cabrera (hamstring) is working his way back, with Counsell saying he had his “best throwing and running day” on Sunday.

Palencia (elbow) is “symptom-free” per Counsell, and throwing baseballs. He will likely not start mound activity until after the break. The bullpen has been a by-committee unit, especially in Palencia’s absence.

Craig Counsell provides updates on Edward Cabrera, Jameson Taillon and Daniel Palencia pic.twitter.com/xTmrXQTBQT

— Marquee Sports Network (@WatchMarquee) July 7, 2026

The Chicago Cubs need innings

Jun 2, 2026; Chicago, Illinois, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jameson Taillon (50) delivers a pitch against the Athletics during the first inning at Wrigley Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

There’s no sugarcoating the seasons that Cabrera and Taillon have had so far; it’s been rough. Cabrera has been on the IL multiple times and sports a 5.10 ERA, 5.08 FIP, 1.4 WHIP, and 14 homers given up in 14 starts. Taillon sports a 5.19 ERA, 6.32 FIP, 1.3 WHIP, and 20 homers given up in 13 starts.

The Cubs will need better from both of them, and they will need innings from them. With all of the injuries, the staff has been stretched so thin. At this point, having a starter that can get into the sixth inning and do just enough to keep the team in the game is welcomed.

Unfortunately, Cabrera is not the most economical pitcher. Taillon, however, has a track record of being economical. Over the past three seasons, he’s averaged around six innings per start (rounded up), which for these days is pretty solid. Ideally, he helps eat some innings and pitches respectable enough to keep them in games. Cabrera will be expected to better channel his stuff and give them some quality outings. Even if they are not very deep. Time will tell if that actually happens.

This article first appeared on ChiCitySports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: