Chicago Cubs seek pitching reinforcements amid injury surge

The Chicago Cubs are confronting a severe pitching shortage, with 13 pitchers currently on the injured list. Manager Craig Counsell has indicated that the team may add any type of pitcher at the upcoming trade deadline, as the club’s rotation and bullpen are both depleted.

Starter Justin Steele, once projected as a potential ace, has been ruled out as a starter for the 2026 season. He is expected to return in a bullpen role after completing his rehab, though his timeline to rejoin the active roster remains uncertain.

Reliever Phil Maton, the Cubs’ high‑profile free‑agent signing, has struggled this season with a 6.08 ERA. However, a recent minor‑league rehab appearance showed improvement, as he threw 13 of 15 pitches for strikes and recorded three strikeouts in 1.2 innings. The club hopes his recovery can provide much‑needed depth as the team pushes for a playoff berth.