Cubs Pitching Staff and Players Adjustments Following Justin Steele’s Injury
In the wake of Justin Steele’s season-ending elbow surgery, the Chicago Cubs are actively seeking to bolster their starting rotation. Steele’s absence has created an opportunity for several pitchers to step up and fill the void.
Colin Rea Steps In
Veteran right-hander Colin Rea has been thrust into a starting role following Steele’s injury. Rea is slated to take over Steele’s scheduled start against the Los Angeles Dodgers. His experience and versatility make him a reliable option to stabilize the rotation during this challenging period.
Jordan Wicks: A Promising Prospect
Left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks is emerging as a strong candidate for a call-up. Wicks, who made his MLB debut in 2023, has shown significant promise in the minors. In his recent appearance with Triple-A Iowa, he delivered three perfect innings in relief, showcasing his potential to contribute at the major league level.
Cade Horton: Developing in the Minors
Right-hander Cade Horton, the Cubs’ first-round pick in the 2022 MLB Draft, is another potential candidate for a future call-up. Horton has been refining his skills in the minors, and his impressive velocity was on display in a recent outing where he struck out six over four innings. However, he may require additional development time before making the jump to the majors.
Ben Brown’s MLB Debut
To address the immediate gap in the rotation, the Cubs have called up right-hander Ben Brown from Triple-A Iowa. Brown made his MLB debut against the Texas Rangers, delivering a performance that included multiple strikeouts and valuable innings. The Cubs are optimistic about his potential to contribute significantly in the coming games.
Upcoming Schedule and Strategic Adjustments
The Cubs’ upcoming series against the Dodgers presents both challenges and opportunities. With off-days strategically placed in the schedule, the team is considering adjustments such as operating with a four-man rotation temporarily. This approach would allow the Cubs to manage their pitching staff effectively while navigating the absence of their ace.
In summary, the Cubs are adapting to Steele’s absence by leveraging a mix of experienced pitchers and promising prospects. The coming weeks will be crucial as the team works to maintain competitiveness in the National League Central.