Cubs Make Roster Move After Gavin Hollowell Injury

Tim Vizer-Imagn Images

Cubs Make Roster Move After Gavin Hollowell Injury

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miracle Dimwesh | Last updated Jul 31, 2026 12:49 PM ET

The Chicago Cubs reshuffled their bullpen Friday after placing right-hander Gavin Hollowell on the 15-day injured list with right shoulder inflammation. In a corresponding move, the club recalled left-handed pitcher Antoine Kelly from Triple-A Iowa, where he is expected to make his major league debut.

Kelly's promotion comes as Chicago continues to navigate a string of pitching injuries while remaining firmly in the National League playoff race. The Cubs announced both moves Friday morning ahead of the start of their weekend series.

The roster change also marks another milestone for Chicago's pitching staff, as Kelly becomes the 35th pitcher used by manager Craig Counsell during the 2026 season.

Today’s roster moves presented by @NuveenInv: pic.twitter.com/Na0j2LsvMp
— Chicago Cubs (@Cubs) July 31, 2026

Hollowell had quietly become one of the Cubs' most dependable relievers before landing on the injured list. The 28-year-old posted a 2.51 ERA across 14 appearances, recording 13 strikeouts in 14.1 innings while holding opponents to a .208 batting average.

He also earned his first save of the season on July 24 against the Pittsburgh Pirates and entered the injured list after throwing 8.2 consecutive scoreless innings.

Chicago Cubs relief pitcher Gavin Hollowell (46) Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Kelly arrives in Chicago after producing strong numbers at Triple-A Iowa, where he posted a 2.79 ERA with 22 strikeouts over 19.1 innings in 13 appearances. Originally drafted by the Milwaukee Brewers, the left-hander joined the Cubs organization in June after being acquired from the Los Angeles Dodgers for cash considerations.

The Cubs entered Friday with a 62-47 record, sitting second in the National League Central and occupying a National League Wild Card position. Kelly's arrival gives Chicago another fresh arm as it continues managing a bullpen that has been tested throughout the season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: