What's Happening?
Colin Rea, a pitcher for the Chicago Cubs, is facing an uncertain role in the team's 2026 pitching rotation. According to MLB.com, the Cubs' current starting rotation includes Matthew Boyd, Jameson Taillon, and Cade Horton, leaving Rea, along with Ben Brown and Jordan Wicks, as depth options. Rea, who is 35 years old, may spend most of the 2026 season in a relief role, as Justin Steele is expected to return from an elbow injury in the first half of the season. In the previous season, Rea made 32 appearances, 27 of which were starts, and achieved a career-best 3.95 ERA, 1.25 WHIP, and a 127:44 strikeout-to-walk ratio over 159 1/3 innings. However, with the potential shift to a long-relief role, Rea's ability to replicate his 2025 performance
is in question.
Why It's Important?
The potential shift in Colin Rea's role from a starting pitcher to a relief pitcher could have significant implications for both his career and the Chicago Cubs' pitching strategy. Rea's performance in 2025 was a standout in his career, marking the first time he achieved an ERA under 4.00. If Rea is moved to a relief role, it could impact his career trajectory and market value as a pitcher. For the Cubs, having a reliable long-relief option like Rea could provide flexibility in managing the pitching staff, especially with Justin Steele's anticipated return. However, it also means the team may need to rely more heavily on their current starters, which could affect their overall performance in the 2026 season.
What's Next?
As the 2026 MLB season approaches, the Chicago Cubs will need to finalize their pitching rotation and bullpen roles. Colin Rea's performance during spring training and early in the season will likely determine his role. The team will also monitor Justin Steele's recovery closely, as his return could further influence Rea's position. The Cubs' management will need to balance the need for a strong starting rotation with the benefits of having experienced pitchers like Rea available for long-relief duties. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how these decisions impact the team's performance in the upcoming season.
