Cubs Placing Right-Hander on IL With Move to Bullpen Looming

The Chicago Cubs have placed right-handed pitcher Edward Cabrera on the injured list with a blister, placing him ahead of their series against their rivals. Cabrera, a six-year MLB veteran, arrived in Chicago as part of a trade with the Miami Marlins but has struggled since his debut. He has a 5.68 ERA in 76 innings pitched and a -1.2 bWAR, the worst on the team.

Cabrera first injured himself in May with a blister on his right-middle finger, and suffered another injury in June when he strained his left hamstring. His latest start came against the St. Louis Cardinals on Sunday, marking his return to MLB action since June 23. Cabrera threw just 3.2 innings and gave up seven earned runs, leading to a loss.

Manager Craig Counsell expressed concern over Cabrera's performance, noting that his changeup and fastball were not as effective. The Cubs plan to move Cabrera out of the rotation when he returns and believe he would be better suited for relief appearances. Cabrera has only appeared in two relief appearances during the regular season, both in 2023.

If Cabrera can make the transition to the bullpen, the Cubs could have a valuable asset for the postseason.