Daniel Palencia had a good year as Cubs closer in 2025 despite some injury issues. He had more time on the IL this year, first with an oblique strain and then a flexor injury.
Today, the Cubs activated Palencia from the injured list after five rehab outings, the last two of which were pretty good. He is not expected to immediately return to the closer role, instead serving as what manager Craig Counsell calls an “out-getter” in whatever situation he’s needed. Overall this year in 19 MLB games, Palencia has
a 2.70 ERA, 1.380 WHIP, three saves and 19 strikeouts in 16.2 innings.
To make room for Palencia on the 26-man active roster, right-hander Javier Assad has been optioned to Triple-A Iowa. I don’t need to explain to you how this makes most Cubs fans feel. The only thing I can say is that Assad is likely back on Sept. 1 when rosters expand.
In addition, the Cubs added infielder Gabriel Arias, acquired Wednesday on waivers from the Mets, to the 26-man active roster. To make room for Arias, infielder Owen Miller was designated for assignment. He’s likely to clear waivers and will almost certainly be given the opportunity to remain in the organization.
As always, we await developments. Today’s game preview will post at 7 p.m. CT.
