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Cubs manager Craig Counsell drops encouraging Daniel Palencia injury update
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- Cubs manager Craig Counsell drops encouraging Daniel Palencia injury update
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The Chicago Cubs received encouraging news regarding closer Daniel Palencia , offering a potential boost to a pitching staff navigating a difficult stretch on Tuesday. Manager Craig Counsell 's latest comments suggest they may regain a viral late-inning arm sooner than expected.
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The Cubs placed Palencia on the injured list Friday with what was initially diagnosed as a left oblique strain. Further evaluation later clarified the injury as a lat strain, a distinction that has influenced his recovery outlook. Despite the concern, recent updates point to a quicker-than-anticipated timeline.
Palencia opened the season strong, tossing five scoreless innings across five appearances. His absence has placed added strain on the bullpen, forcing Chicago to reshuffle roles and lean more heavily on its remaining relievers during high-leverage situations.
Counsell addressed reporters on Tuesday afternoon, providing an optimistic update on the right-hander's progress. The Athletic's Patrick Mooney shared the manager's comments on X, formerly Twitter, offering insight into the team's expectations moving forward.
"He's responding very well right now. There's a chance that we're throwing here before we go to the West Coast."
That timeline suggests the 26-year-old reliever may begin a throwing program in the near future, potentially setting up a return within the next two weeks if recovery continues without setbacks.
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Counsell's update provides a timely boost for a bullpen already tested by early-season injuries. Getting Palencia back would solidify the ninth inning and bring much-needed clarity to Chicago's late-game roles.
Even with the optimism, the Cubs will remain cautious . Soft-tissue injuries require careful progression, particularly for a power reliever who relies heavily on velocity and command to succeed.
If his recovery stays on track, Palencia could return by early May. That outcome would strengthen Chicago's bullpen depth and provide a timely boost as the team seeks to stabilize its pitching staff, given that consistency in late innings remains a priority and the team aims to reestablish a reliable bullpen structure moving forward.
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