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Cabrera Exits Early With Finger Blister, Rotation Uncertain

5/21/2026

33 7 Full Breakdown

Summary

Cabrera Exits Game

Edward Cabrera left game against Milwaukee after a blister on his right finger forced an exit.
He departed in the fourth inning after a 92.5 mph fastball to Joey Ortiz, allowing four runs (one earned).
Manager Craig Counsell said the injury puts Cabrera’s next start in question and clouds the rotation.
Cabrera, a 3-2 pitcher, expects to return in five days despite Matthew Boyd, Cade Horton and Justin Steele being out.

Summary

Cabrera Blister Concern

The Cubs placed right-hander Javier Assad in Triple-A Iowa as a possible call-up if Luis Cabrera goes on the injured list.
Team doctors will assess the blister’s impact on grip strength and pitch command during bullpen work.
Manager Craig Counsell must choose a short-term rotation replacement after multiple reshuffles.
The off-day offers treatment time, aiming to keep Cabrera off the injured list although the blister could worsen control.

History

Historical Context

In 2015 a fingertip blister sidelined Cubs ace Jake Arrieta, cutting his fastball speed by 12 % and raising his walk rate 25 %, a setback that affected the Cubs’ rotation despite his 22-6, 1.77 ERA Cy Young season. The same pattern reappeared in 2024 when Brewers starter Edward Cabrera left with a blister, forcing manager Craig Counsell to reshuffle the staff.

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Cabrera Exits Game

Edward Cabrera left game against Milwaukee after a blister on his right finger forced an exit.
He departed in the fourth inning after a 92.5 mph fastball to Joey Ortiz, allowing four runs (one earned).
Manager Craig Counsell said the injury puts Cabrera’s next start in question and clouds the rotation.
Cabrera, a 3-2 pitcher, expects to return in five days despite Matthew Boyd, Cade Horton and Justin Steele being out.

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