The Chicago Cubs face mounting pressure on their bullpen as they approach the final stretch of the regular season amid a tight National League wild-card race. Following a 6-3 loss to the Atlanta Braves on Tuesday night, questions have resurfaced about whether key relievers can stabilize the pitching staff and maintain the Cubs’ postseason positioning.
The Cubs relinquished a three-run lead entering the sixth inning, as the Braves produced three two-run home runs en route to the victory. Chicago’s offense managed only five hits and failed to put a runner in scoring position after the fourth inning, with just one baserunner recorded in the final five frames. Starter Kevin Gausman allowed two runs on a home run by Ronald Acuña Jr. in 5 2/3 innings but highlighted the team’s focus on maintaining composure under pressure.
With nine games remaining after Wednesday’s series finale against Atlanta at Wrigley Field, the Cubs are looking to three key right-handed pitchers to improve their performances down the stretch.
Daniel Palencia, once among the team’s most dependable relievers, has struggled with injuries throughout the season, including a flexor strain that sidelined him for two months. After a strong 2023 campaign featuring a 2.91 ERA and 22 saves, Palencia has been limited to 29 appearances and 25 1/3 innings this year. Despite his recent stretch of five consecutive scoreless outings, concerns remain about his reduced velocity—topping out at 98.3 mph this week compared to averages near 99.6 mph last season—and a decreased swing-and-miss rate. The Cubs are hopeful that Palencia can regain the form that earned him a pivotal role in the 2025 postseason.
Jacob Webb, initially projected as a sixth- or seventh-inning reliever, has seen his performance fluctuate significantly. After a dominant run of 24 consecutive scoreless appearances that stabilized the bullpen, Webb has allowed runs in five of his past eight outings, including four home runs that have led to lost leads. His recent struggles were underscored by surrendering a go-ahead two-run homer to Ozzie Albies on Tuesday. Manager Craig Counsell attributed part of the issue to a rare walk that preceded the home run, noting the need for improved execution. Webb’s limited use of his slider and reliance on his changeup—which has accounted for several home runs this season—have also contributed to his inconsistency.
Edward Cabrera, who entered the bullpen rotation for the first time since 2023 during Tuesday’s game, showed flashes of promise but also moments of trouble. The right-hander recorded three strikeouts and survived a jam with a groundout after falling behind on the count to Acuña. However, he yielded a crucial two-run homer to Drake Baldwin, extending the Braves’ lead. Cabrera’s fastball velocity was notably higher in relief, reaching 99.8 mph, compared with his averages as a starter this season. Though manager Counsell acknowledged the significance of the home run, he praised Cabrera’s overall effort and expressed hope that the pitcher can provide a reliable hard-throwing option from the bullpen.
As tension mounts heading into the final nine games, the Cubs’ ability to secure their spot atop the wild-card standings may hinge on the consistency and resilience of their relief pitching corps. With Palencia working to regain his dominant form, Webb seeking to end his recent slump, and Cabrera adjusting to a new role, Chicago’s bullpen remains a critical focal point in their pursuit of the postseason.