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Daniel Palencia becomes latest Cubs pitcher to hit injured list
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The Chicago Cubs ’ pitching group seemingly cannot stay healthy. On Friday, the franchise placed Daniel Palencia on the 15-day IL. He is the ninth pitcher on the Cubs’ roster to be placed on the Injured List.
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Reports indicate that the 26-year-old closer is dealing with an oblique strain , according to Bob Nightengale of USA Today Sports. The time of the injury is not entirely clear, as Palencia last took the mound in the Cubs’ 7-6 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on April 12.
“ Chicago Cubs closer Daniel Palencia, who was lights out in the WBC and has pitched 5 scoreless innings this year, yielding just 3 hits, goes on the IL with a strained oblique,” reported Nightengale.
This is a tough blow for the Cubs , as the pitching rotation and bullpen are seemingly dwindling. Palencia has been solid in his five appearances so far this season, owning a 0.00 ERA and 1.000 WHIP while recording five strikeouts and one save. He was building off a strong 2025 campaign that saw him finish with an impressive 2.91 ERA and 22 saves.
With Phil Maton also on the 15-day IL with tendinitis in his right knee, Cubs manager Craig Counsell will have to make a tough choice to replace Palencia as the team’s go-to closer. Caleb Thielbar , Jacob Webb , and possibly Hoby Milner may alternate the closer role for the time being.
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We may see who gets the first shot at closing for the Cubs on Friday when Chicago takes on the New York Mets in the first contest of a three-game home series. That matchup is scheduled to begin at 2:20 p.m. EST.
Related: Craig Counsell shares Cade Horton’s expected injury timeline after elbow surgery
Related: Cubs pitcher dealt crushing season-ending injury update
