Cubs Place $68M Ace Taillon Injured List Amid Pitching Crisis

The Chicago Cubs are facing significant challenges with their starting pitching rotation due to injuries. Veteran pitcher Jameson Taillon, who signed a $68 million deal, has been placed on the 15-day injured list with a right calf strain and is expected to miss more than a month, worsening the Cubs' pitching woes as ace Justin Steele is already out for the season and Shota Imanaga recently returned from injury. To fill Taillon's spot, the Cubs have recalled left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks from Triple-A, who will join Chris Flexen in the rotation. Taillon's recent performance had declined, with his ERA rising to 4.44 over 17 starts in 2025. The Cubs currently rely on a limited veteran rotation including Matthew Boyd and Imanaga, supplemented by rookies and less experienced pitchers, increasing the urgency for the team to seek additional starting pitching at the MLB trade deadline. Despite these setbacks, the Cubs maintain a strong record and a division lead, highlighting their commitment to contending in the 2025 season.