URGENT UPDATE: The Chicago Cubs have officially placed closer Daniel Palencia on the 15-day injured list following a right shoulder strain. The announcement came just a day after Palencia struggled in the ninth inning during a 6-3 loss to the Washington Nationals on October 15, 2023.
Palencia, who entered the game with a 3-1 lead, faced five batters without recording an out, surrendering two home runs, a triple, a single, and a walk. His four-seam fastball was clocked at an average of 98.5 mph, a concerning drop of 1.1 mph from his season average. His splitter also saw a decrease, averaging 86.8 mph, down 1.3 mph.
In his third major league season, all with the Cubs, the 25-year-old right-hander has recorded 22 saves out of 25 chances and holds a 3.00 ERA. This injury could significantly impact the Cubs’ playoff aspirations as they currently sit two games ahead of the San Diego Padres for the top National League wild card spot.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell confirmed that Palencia will stay with the team during their ongoing three-game series in Atlanta. “We’re just going to get the treatment and see how it responds over the next couple of days and then go from there,” Counsell stated.
In response to Palencia’s injury, the Cubs have recalled Ethan Roberts from Triple-A Iowa to bolster their bullpen. Fans are left anxious about the implications of Palencia’s absence as the team gears up for critical games ahead.
As the Cubs navigate this setback, all eyes will be on Palencia’s recovery and the performance of the bullpen in his absence. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
