Full Breakdown
Cubs Bullpen Struggles Threaten Playoff Position as September Approaches
By Drooid · · How we work
Recent Collapse Highlights Bullpen Woes
The Chicago Cubs were swept by the Milwaukee Brewers in a two-game series that left them in the second wild-card spot, 1½ games behind the Philadelphia Phillies and 2½ games ahead of the San Diego Padres. In the first game, starter Kevin Gausman surrendered six earned runs in two innings, giving the Brewers a six-run lead. The bullpen could not halt the rally, allowing a walk-off win in the tenth after Jacob Webb surrendered a two-run home run to Jackson Chourio. The following night, Webb’s changeup yielded a home run—the first he had allowed with that pitch since June 10. The loss extended the Cubs’ losing streak to three games and dropped their ERA in the last two weeks to a league-worst 5.40.
Background & Context
The bullpen’s difficulties stem from a season of injuries and role instability. Right-hander Phil Maton, who posted a 6.18 ERA in 31 appearances, is now out for the remainder of the season after knee surgery. High-leverage arms Daniel Palencia, Hunter Harvey and Ryan Zeferjahn have all missed time with various injuries. After a 24-consecutive-scoreless-outings stretch that began on June 24, Jacob Webb’s performance deteriorated, and the team has lacked set roles for relievers throughout the year, a point repeatedly noted by manager Craig Counsell.
Data & Statistics
- Bullpen ERA since late August: 5.08, tied for 24th in the majors.
- Overall bullpen ERA entering the final three weeks: 5.40.
- Cubs have allowed the most home runs in the league.
- Jacob Webb’s recent six outings: nine runs, three home runs in 4 2/3 innings.
Official Statements & Responses
Counsell acknowledged the defensive mistake that cost a run and the “couple bullpen issues” that have plagued recent outings. Pitching staff president Jed Hoyer identified the home-run surge as a “challenge” the organization must address.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Sources agree on the statistical decline but differ on the projected impact of potential Triple-A call-ups; the Cubs have not confirmed any imminent promotions, leaving the bullpen’s future composition uncertain.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I just need to pitch better,” — Kevin Gausman
- “Look, our job is to win games, that’s what we can control,” — Craig Counsell, manager
- “I’m tired of letting the team down, to be completely honest,” — Jacob Webb, veteran
What’s Next
With roughly fifteen games remaining, the Cubs must secure the top wild-card spot to guarantee a home-field advantage in the postseason. The team plans to evaluate left-hander Justin Steele’s rehab outings at Triple-A Iowa and consider any late-season roster moves. Manager Craig Counsell reiterated that “the answers are not there” regarding immediate bullpen replacements, emphasizing reliance on the current nine-man staff to finish the stretch.
