Cubs’ Daniel Palencia gets intriguing update amid injury recovery

Chicago Cubs closer Daniel Palencia is on the injured list with a lat strain. The Cubs are playing well despite batting multiple injury concerns. Palencia has been working hard to return, and it seems as if he could join the ball club soon.

“Cubs closer Daniel Palencia (lat strain) has made enough progress that the team is considering activating him Friday for the start of a three-game series against the Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field,” Patrick Mooney of The Athletic reported on Wednesday.

Nothing is guaranteed, but Palencia could reportedly return on Friday ahead of the Cubs’ series against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Palencia’s return will be crucial to say the least.

Palencia, 26, became the team’s closer last season and pitched well. He recorded 22 saves across 54 games pitched. He had a 2.91 ERA as well. Palencia started the 2026 campaign strong as well, as he did not allow a run across five outings.

Barring any setbacks, Palencia is seemingly going to return soon. Even if he does not return on Friday, Palencia’s return likely would not be long after. The Cubs will continue to monitor and provide updates on Daniel Palencia’s injury status as they are made available.

Chicago is playing the final contest of a three-game series in San Diego against the Padres on Wednesday. The series is currently tied 1-1. Overall, the Cubs are 18-12 and in second place in the National League Central standings, trailing only the Cincinnati Reds by 1.5 games. Palencia’s return will only help the Cubs’ pursuit of first place in the division.