Chicago Cubs Face Pitching Setbacks as Palencia and Horton Sidelined, Boyd Set for Return

The Chicago Cubs announced a series of significant updates to their pitching staff on Friday, with left-handed pitcher Matthew Boyd targeting a return to the rotation next week, while closer Daniel Palencia and prospect Cade Horton are both set for extended absences.

Palencia was placed on the 15-day injured list after experiencing a strained left oblique, according to manager Craig Counsell. The discomfort began following a throwing session in Philadelphia and persisted through the week. Despite a successful bullpen session Friday, Palencia reported renewed tightness during conditioning exercises, prompting the team to sideline him. He last pitched on Sunday, securing a win in the ninth inning against the Pirates.

Meanwhile, Horton’s situation grew more serious after undergoing Tommy John surgery for an ulnar collateral ligament injury. Counsell indicated Horton could miss up to 16 months, effectively ruling him out for the remainder of the season and potentially well into the next. Horton initially sustained the injury during a start on April 3, leaving after the second inning and later being diagnosed with a strained forearm before the need for surgery was confirmed.

The Cubs’ bullpen also remains depleted, with pitchers Phil Maton (knee tendinitis) and Porter Hodge (season-ending elbow strain) still out. Counsell stated that bullpen usage will be adjusted on a game-by-game basis as the team manages with as many as ten players currently on the injured list.

Delivering a boost, Boyd reported he’s on track to rejoin the starting rotation next Wednesday following a successful rehab outing in Triple-A Iowa on Thursday. Boyd has been sidelined with a strained left biceps since April 1, when he last pitched in cold conditions against the Angels. He expressed confidence in his recovery and readiness to contribute upon return.

As of Friday, the Cubs are expected to continue rotating bullpen roles while awaiting the return of key staff. Maton is scheduled for an important bullpen test on Saturday to evaluate his progress. The status of all injured pitchers will be reassessed as new information becomes available.