Full Breakdown
Cubs Activate Ethan Roberts, Shut Down Hunter Harvey
5/9/2026, 11:20:42 PM
Injury Background and Recent Setsets
The Chicago Cubs have faced a series of bullpen injuries early this season. Right-hander Ethan Roberts entered the 15-day injured list on April 13 after a workout accident sliced his middle finger. Reliever Hunter Harvey, placed on the IL on April 12 for triceps inflammation, suffered a setback when an MRI showed a stress reaction in the triceps and shoulder. Left-hander Caleb Thielbar has been on the IL since April 24 with a hamstring strain.
Pitcher Updates and Recent Performance
- Ethan Roberts – activated Friday; cleared a roster spot by optioning Gavin Hollowell to Triple-A Iowa. He posted a 1.93 ERA in eight Triple-A relief outings and previously logged 2 2/3 MLB innings without allowing a run.
- Hunter Harvey – shut down for four weeks; will rehab at the Arizona complex after the MRI-identified stress reaction.
- Caleb Thielbar – completed a bullpen session; slated for a light mound workout Sunday and a live bullpen in the Atlanta series.
- Gavin Hollowell – optioned to Triple-A Iowa to make room for Roberts.
Bullpen Impact
Roberts’ return adds a right-handed arm for the series against the Texas Rangers, but Harvey’s month-long shutdown reduces depth on the right side. The Cubs must monitor Thielbar’s progress and keep the bullpen healthy as they prepare for the Rangers series and the upcoming series in Atlanta.
Official Statements & Responses
Manager Craig Counsell stressed a cautious approach, noting Harvey will be “shut down for the next four weeks” and the team will “stop and restart” his rehab. He said the bullpen’s health is “progressing in a pretty good manner” and Thielbar’s next steps depend on his light workout. Pitching coach Tommy Hottovy said the organization is “not rushing these guys back” and is focused on “doing the right things” for each pitcher’s recovery.
Verbatim Quotes
- “So that's a shutdown for the next four weeks,” — Craig Counsell, Cubs manager
- “We're going to have him stop and restart.” — Craig Counsell, Cubs manager
- “It’s just not rushing these guys back and making sure we’re doing the right things,” — Tommy Hottovy, Cubs pitching coach
- “Thielbar has done a great job checking a lot of things off the list. Today he threw a great bullpen. You never feel like you’re out of the woods, but it is nice when you have some of these names coming back.” — Tommy Hottovy, Cubs pitching coach
What’s Next for the Bullpen
Harvey will stay at the Arizona facility for a four-week rest before re-evaluation. Thielbar is expected to throw a light session Sunday and could join a live bullpen in the Atlanta series, with a minor-league rehab possibly beginning next weekend. Roberts is now eligible for immediate use, and the Cubs will keep adjusting the roster as the season progresses.
