Injured Taillon Leaves Cubs Needing A Starter: One Reliever Emerges As A Viable Option

Michael

3 min read

Post on Jul 12, 2025

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Injured Taillon Leaves Cubs Needing a Starter: Keegan Thompson Emerges as a Viable Option

The Chicago Cubs are facing a significant challenge after starting pitcher Jameson Taillon was placed on the 15-day injured list with a right ankle sprain. This leaves a gaping hole in the rotation, forcing manager David Ross to scramble for solutions. While several options exist, one reliever is stepping up and showing he might be the most viable immediate replacement: Keegan Thompson.

The injury to Taillon, a key part of the Cubs' pitching staff, throws a wrench into their playoff aspirations. His absence creates a pressing need for a reliable starter, a challenge magnified by the already thin pitching depth within the organization. The team is now actively exploring options, but the pressure is on to find a suitable replacement quickly.

The Impact of Taillon's Injury

Taillon's injury couldn't have come at a worse time. The Cubs are locked in a tight race for a postseason berth, and his contributions—both on the field and in the clubhouse—will be sorely missed. His absence directly impacts the team's pitching strategy and puts increased strain on the remaining starters who will now need to shoulder a heavier workload. This could lead to increased fatigue and potentially more injuries down the line. The team's pitching coach, Tommy Hottovy, will be instrumental in navigating this challenging situation.

Keegan Thompson: Stepping Up to the Plate

While the Cubs explore potential external options through trades or free agency (a process which can be lengthy and unpredictable), one internal candidate is showcasing his readiness: Keegan Thompson. Initially drafted as a starter, Thompson has spent much of his career in the bullpen, developing a reputation for his versatility and effectiveness. His recent performances demonstrate an ability to go deeper into games than a typical reliever, offering a potential bridge until a more permanent solution is found.

His impressive command and diverse pitch mix, including a sharp slider and effective changeup, make him a credible option to eat innings in a starting role. He has consistently shown an ability to adapt his approach depending on the game situation, a crucial skill for a starter. His recent outings have included several strong performances, hinting at a potential breakthrough.

Other Options and the Road Ahead

While Thompson emerges as the most immediate viable option, the Cubs are not ruling out other possibilities. They might explore promoting a young pitcher from the minors, although this carries the risk of inexperience at the major league level. Another option would be to utilize an "opener" strategy, employing a short-inning pitcher to start and then rely on the bullpen for the remaining innings. This method, however, can be unpredictable and might overwork the bullpen.

The Cubs' front office faces a difficult decision. They must weigh the risks of promoting a less experienced pitcher against the potential benefits of immediately filling the void with a more reliable option like Thompson, albeit one still unproven as a full-time starter. The next few weeks will be crucial in determining their course of action and assessing the impact of Taillon’s absence on their playoff chances. The coming games will offer valuable insights into the team's ability to adapt and overcome this obstacle.

Call to Action: What are your thoughts on the Cubs' current pitching situation? Share your predictions for the remainder of the season in the comments below!