Chicago Cubs right-hander Jameson Taillon is expected to rejoin the team’s starting rotation after the All-Star break, following a minor-league rehabilitation stint. Taillon, who pitched 3⅓ innings in a rehab start for High-A South Bend on Sunday, allowed one run on four hits while striking out two with no walks, throwing 50 pitches. The Cubs are inclined to have him make one more rehab appearance before activating him from the injured list.
Manager Craig Counsell indicated that if the team requires an additional starter prior to the planned return, Taillon could be made available on a limited basis. Taillon, who has been working to regain form after injury, expressed eagerness to contribute to the Cubs’ successful stretch late in the season.
Among the 15 players currently on Chicago’s injured list, Taillon is the closest to returning. Right-hander Daniel Palencia, sidelined with a flexor strain, has begun a throwing progression after being symptom-free but is still weeks away from pitching in games. Counsell expects Palencia to resume mound work following the All-Star break.
Edward Cabrera, out with a left hamstring strain, showed progress by completing his best day of running and throwing on Sunday. He is anticipated to continue similar rehabilitation exercises this week. Counsell noted that Cabrera’s injury remains relatively recent, but the team is optimistic about the progress.
Right-hander Ben Brown remains in Chicago as he continues to manage a stress reaction in his neck. Brown is performing light plyometric ball work to maintain arm activity and will likely undergo additional imaging scans to assess healing, though a specific timeline has not been set.
Infielder Matt Shaw, sidelined with a left hand sprain, also stayed behind to rest after experiencing symptoms while swinging a bat during recent testing. Shaw is expected to rest for several days before undergoing further evaluation in the batting cage.
The Cubs continue to balance player health and roster needs as they navigate a congested injury list and push toward the second half of the season.