Daniel Palencia displayed a wide smile on Sunday. The Chicago Cubs reliever recently delivered his best performance of the month on Saturday against the Cincinnati Reds. After spending eight weeks on the injured list, he returned to hitting triple digits on the radar gun, showcasing the dominance expected from him last season. In a standout performance, Palencia pitched two perfect innings, striking out three of the six batters he faced. This marked a significant improvement and timely step forward, aligned with his ten appearances since coming off the injured list on August 21.
Palencia’s fastball averaged 99.5 mph and reached a peak of 100.6 mph against the Reds. “I’ve been feeling confident,” he revealed on Sunday. “I wasn’t trying to throw hard. When I saw the velocity, I realized I’m in a good spot.” He focused on confidence and executing pitches, aiming to be his authentic self during the game.
With only six regular-season games left, manager Craig Counsell emphasizes the bullpen. The Cubs could secure a wild-card playoff spot with a victory against the Miami Marlins on Tuesday night, or if the Arizona Diamondbacks lose to the Colorado Rockies.
“We need to assess our bullpen this week,” Counsell stated. “This was a positive step in that direction.”
The Cubs have reasons to focus on the bullpen. They entered their day off on Monday ranked 28th in bullpen fWAR at minus-0.8, with a 3.91 ERA placing them 14th in MLB. Injuries have necessitated creative role management as offseason relief signings mostly fell short. Hunter Harvey pitched only four innings in April due to a lingering triceps injury that ended his season. Phil Maton faced knee issues, leading to season-ending surgery. Signed for two years, he hopes to recover from a 6.18 ERA in 31 appearances in 2027. Hoby Milner was sidelined by an appendectomy and the Cubs preferred other lefties, Caleb Thielbar and Ryan Rolison.
Jacob Webb, on a two-year deal, leads with nine saves. If he fails to secure another, the Cubs could become the fifth team since saves became official in 1969 to reach the postseason without a 10-save pitcher. The last such occurrence for the Cubs was in 1971.
Palencia’s early oblique injury and flexor strain interrupted what might have been an outstanding season. His recent outing is exactly what the Cubs need as the playoffs approach. “That’s the Danny Palencia we know,” catcher Carson Kelly affirmed. “After a long time out, regaining form matters. His recent performance was crucial, exhibiting velocity and sharp pitching.”
Palencia’s increased confidence was evident when he threw a splitter, a rarity in his arsenal, to freeze Elly De La Cruz of the Reds on strike three. Although his splitter usage is low this season, he trusted it during critical moments. “It shows his maturity and growth,” Kelly added. “He’s 26 and young, but his progress is visible. Making these small improvements yearly leads to a complete package.”
This version of Palencia could significantly impact the Cubs’ bullpen in high-stake situations. “Regular outings help evaluate players beyond individual performances,” Counsell noted. “Recency is important at this stage, but the overall body of work remains significant. We have talented players who deserve trust.”