Cubs Struggle Through Injuries but Stay Competitive

By the Editorial Team · Monday, June 29, 2026

The Chicago Cubs are coping with a major pitching injury crisis that has sidelined multiple starters and relievers, yet they remain in playoff contention in the National League wild-card race. To address these shortages, the team has actively acquired pitchers like David Peterson and Bryse Wilson, whose recent performances have been crucial as the Cubs prepare for a critical midseason stretch and potential trade deadline moves.

The Chicago Cubs continue to battle through a significant wave of pitching injuries as they strive to remain competitive in the National League Central division. Despite a challenging stretch, including an entire rotation and key bullpen arms on the injured list simultaneously, the team has managed to stay afloat and maintain a spot in the playoff hunt.

As of late June, the Cubs sit 5½ games behind the division leaders but occupy the second National League wild-card position following a successful 6-1 road trip. The team's resilience has been tested amid the long-term absences of several pitchers, including Cade Horton, Justin Steele, Ben Brown, Jameson Taillon, Edward Cabrera, Daniel Palencia, Phil Maton, and Hoby Milner. Some of these players are expected to remain sidelined deep into the summer or beyond, putting increased pressure on the roster’s depth.

Manager Craig Counsell, whose team is currently facing the Milwaukee Brewers in Wisconsin, acknowledged that the focus is firmly on managing the injury crisis and stabilizing the pitching staff. “We’ve got to get through this phase,” Counsell said following the Cubs' Saturday victory. “The focus of everything for me right now is getting that to a good place,” he added, emphasizing the need for health and consistency moving forward.

To address the pitching shortages, the Cubs’ front office, led by president Jed Hoyer, has been active in the trade and waiver markets. On Thursday, the organization acquired left-hander David Peterson from the New York Mets, who debuted on Saturday with a solid outing against the Brewers, allowing two runs over 5⅓ innings. Hoyer noted the ongoing challenges ahead and reiterated the team's intent to explore all avenues for reinforcements, including small trades, waiver claims, and free-agent pickups.

Among recent additions is right-hander Bryse Wilson, claimed off waivers, who delivered a key performance in the bullpen during Sunday’s 10-inning 4-3 victory. Wilson, reunited with former Brewers manager Counsell, pitched 4⅓ scoreless innings, highlighting the strategic moves the Cubs are making to compensate for their depleted pitching resources.

Meanwhile, left-hander Jordan Wicks, who struggled earlier in the season and was demoted to the minors, was called up again due to the ongoing pitching shortfall. In a pivotal moment during Sunday’s game, Wicks entered a bases-loaded, no-outs situation in the 10th inning and managed to escape without further damage, helping secure the win. Wicks acknowledged the opportunity to prove himself amid the team’s difficult circumstances.

While neither Peterson nor Wilson is expected to be the central figure of a potential championship run, their early contributions are vital in keeping the Cubs competitive as they head into the crucial midseason stretch. With the team’s pitching staff still in flux, Chicago’s focus remains on maintaining health and flexibility while positioning itself for possible moves ahead of the trade deadline.

Despite their challenges, the Cubs know the path to the National League Central title likely still runs through Milwaukee, underscoring the importance of continued resilience and adaptability in the coming months.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.