Chicago Cubs: Jameson Taillon’s time in the rotation is in jeopardy

It was another rough go for Cubs starter Jameson Taillon on Sunday afternoon. After surrendering seven runs in four innings against the Pirates (including three homers), his season stats sit at a 5.92 ERA, 6.74 FIP, 2.96 HR/9, and 25 homers given up in 76 innings pitched. He’s at the very bottom among pitchers in WAR.

After Sunday’s game, manager Craig Counsell said there would be some deliberation on whether Taillon makes his next start. This is all coming a week before the deadline, with some reinforcements potentially coming to the Cubs pitching staff soon.

Craig Counsell would NOT commit to Jameson Taillon making his next start

Said they need to discuss what’s best for the staff moving forward

— CHGO Cubs (@CHGO_Cubs) July 26, 2026

Jameson Taillon probably shouldn’t start again

Jameson Tallion Chicago Cubs — Jul 26, 2026; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jameson Taillon (50) delivers a pitch against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the first inning at PNC Park. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images

Right now, it’s DFA territory in terms of performance. It is hard with such a thin staff, and Taillon is a valued teammate in that clubhouse and is making $18 million. At this point, however, it’s even more difficult to justify giving him the ball every five days. Regardless of whether he’s on the roster or not.

It’s one thing to be not great but hold it together enough to keep the team in a game, like Colin Rea. Taillon at this point is non-competitive. When he was effective from 2024 through 2025 (3.45 ERA, 1.1 WHIP in 295 innings), he would surrender a solo shot or two, but still give length and plenty of quality starts. Now it’s digging 4+ run holes early with balls flying over the fence at an insane pace.

Right now, Javier Assad is the swing man and is more trustworthy. He might not be Cy Young, and he’s had his own clunkers, but he’s been more competitive. Aaron Civale is also a less-exciting option. Then if the Cubs add a starter or two, it gives Counsell more to work with. Either way, it cannot go on with Taillon. He is a hardworking, well-respected guy who gave the Cubs some good value over the last two seasons, but now there’s no value.

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