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Cubs’ Closer Daniel Palencia Injured; Team Plans Committee

4/17/2026

25 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Chicago Cubs placed closer Daniel Palencia on the 15-day injured list with a left oblique strain, retroactive to April 14.
He became the 10th pitcher on the Cubs' injured list.
Palencia had a perfect start to the season, recording one save and five scoreless innings.
The Cubs plan a closing committee, with Ben Brown and Caleb Thielbar as options, while Cade Horton, Phil Maton, and Hunter Harvey are sidelined.

History

Historical Context

In 2021, Major League Baseball introduced a 26-man roster limit, prompting teams like the Chicago Cubs to adapt their strategies amid player injuries. With ten pitchers sidelined, the Cubs utilized a closing committee featuring Ben Brown and Caleb Thielbar. This shift reflects a broader trend in MLB, as teams increasingly navigate health challenges and roster constraints, potentially reshaping bullpen roles in future seasons.

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Story summary

The Chicago Cubs placed closer Daniel Palencia on the 15-day injured list with a left oblique strain, retroactive to April 14.
He became the 10th pitcher on the Cubs' injured list.
Palencia had a perfect start to the season, recording one save and five scoreless innings.
The Cubs plan a closing committee, with Ben Brown and Caleb Thielbar as options, while Cade Horton, Phil Maton, and Hunter Harvey are sidelined.

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