Chicago Cubs Pitching Rehab Updates and Future of Closer Daniel Palencia

The Chicago Cubs continue to grapple with a season‑long injury crisis among pitchers. Three arms—right‑hander Edward Cabrera, left‑hander Hoby Milner and closer Daniel Palencia—made rehab appearances for Triple‑A Iowa this week. Cabrera, returning from a left hamstring and adductor strain, threw four innings with one hit, one unearned run and eight strikeouts, and is projected to rejoin the major‑league staff by mid‑to‑late August. Milner, who underwent surgery for appendicitis, completed a one‑inning relief stint and is expected to make his final rehab start before heading back to Chicago. Palencia remains on the 15‑day IL after an elbow injury, and his role as closer is uncertain.

Meanwhile, the Cubs have bolstered the bullpen with acquisitions such as Kevin Gausman, Clay Holmes, Braxton Garrett and Ryan Zeferjahn, and are evaluating alternatives like veteran Shelby Miller and de‑facto closer Jacob Webb as they prepare for the season’s final stretch.