2 injury updates make the Cubs’ trade deadline pitching haul look even better

As expected, the Chicago Cubs targeted pitching additions prior to yesterday’s trade deadline passing. David Peterson and Aaron Civale have been with the team for a while now, but joining the organization more recently was Kevin Gausman, Ryan Zeferjahn, Braxton Garrett, and Clay Holmes.

Figuring out where all six of these pitchers slot in will be the next job for manager Craig Counsell, but importantly the impending return of two key pieces to their staff must be factored in as well. Per Patrick Mooney, starter Edward Cabrera and reliever/closer Daniel Palencia will throw rehab outings in Triple-A Iowa on Wedneday, August 5. Their timeline to return is the middle of August. Cabrera did make a rehab appearance prior to the trade deadline.

As Jed Hoyer’s front office loads up on pitching before the trade deadline, the Cubs are also scheduling Edward Cabrera and Daniel Palencia for rehab outings on Wednesday with Triple-A Iowa, a timeline that would potentially have them activated by the middle of August.

— Patrick Mooney (@PJ_Mooney) August 3, 2026

After working with a short handed pitching staff all year, reinforcements have arrived for the Chicago Cubs

Edward Cabrera, Chicago Cubs — Jun 11, 2026; Denver, Colorado, USA; Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Edward Cabrera (30) in the dugout during the game against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Pitching injuries are an unavoidable part of every season, but few teams have been hit as hard as the Cubs in 2026. Chicago lost Cade Horton for the year, saw Justin Steele suffer a setback, watched Matthew Boyd miss time because of an off-the-field injury, and had Ben Brown’s breakout campaign interrupted by a neck issue. Veteran reliever Phil Maton has also battled tendinitis, adding to what has been a seemingly endless stream of pitching setbacks.

Despite the constant adversity, the Cubs have managed to keep their staff together, making their aggressive approach at the trade deadline look increasingly necessary. That said, once Cabreras returns, Counsell will have upwards of eight starting pitchers to choose from and a much improved and versatile bullpen to work with.

These additions over the past few days were not only necessary to help the Cubs navigate the remainder of the regular season, but they also give the organization its best chance to make another deep postseason run.

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