Challenges and Changes for Chicago Cubs Relievers: Thielbar, Maton, and Garrett

Chicago Cubs pitcher Caleb Thielbar uses humor to cope with a tough period. Despite his challenges on the mound, he hasn’t walked a batter in his last 15 appearances since June 29. This is one of the few positives as Thielbar entered the Cubs’ series against the Washington Nationals. He expressed his lighthearted frustration, saying, “Oh great, we can’t talk about that.”

During these 15 appearances, Thielbar has a 7.30 ERA, allowing 10 runs on 18 hits. Five of these were home runs. This is puzzling considering his metrics largely mirror those from his successful 2025 season. His strikeout count is still high, with 15 batters fanned over the last 12 1/3 innings. Additionally, his fastball velocity increased by 0.5 mph over last year. These statistics typically indicate success, yet Thielbar finds himself in a slump.

I’m honestly trying not to dive into it. Because I know that strikeout rate and walk rate are very well correlated to success, and it’s not happening right now, right? And so I don’t know. I guess I’m just trying to hang on until it turns around without losing my mind. That’s kind of the main thing. – Caleb Thielbar, speaking to the Tribune

Thielbar’s Batting Average on Balls in Play (BABIP) has risen from .226 in 2025 to .314 this season, suggesting bad luck. During a recent victory against the Royals, he allowed two runs on three hits in 1/3 of an inning. While his hard-hit rate has peaked at 40.6%, he sees some positive signs because no hard-hit balls were allowed in that outing.

The Cubs seek solutions as command issues arise. Thielbar’s history shows proficiency in high-leverage situations, and the team needs that version of him back. His home run rate has increased, with 10 already allowed this season in 35 2/3 innings. This surpasses his previous high of eight home runs in 2021 with the Minnesota Twins. Manager Craig Counsell highlights similar pitch metrics to those in 2025, complicating the analysis of Thielbar’s struggles.

So then you go to the softer stuff: Are we calling the right pitches? Are we sequencing things right? What does our command look like? That’s the next level you go to, and so that’s the things we’re trying to unlock. – Manager Craig Counsell

Cubs reliever Phil Maton faces an uncertain return due to a partially torn patellar tendon. His knee problem was previously diagnosed as stubborn tendinitis. Maton remains hopeful for a comeback this year, though the Cubs are not relying on his return.

Last season with the Texas Rangers, Maton pitched through pain. No acute injury led to his current issue, and he regrets not seeking imaging on his right knee following the 2025 season. His knee started to bother him again during spring training. A recent platelet-rich plasma injection and upcoming evaluations will determine if he can attempt a return later this season.

Braxton Garrett, a new addition to the Cubs acquired from the Miami Marlins, appreciates his opportunity. Drafted by the Marlins in 2016, he joins the Cubs after ten years with Miami. Garrett missed the 2025 season due to his second Tommy John surgery but has worked on regaining his command.

Garrett expressed gratitude for being targeted by Cubs’ president Jed Hoyer. He strives to keep a positive mindset about the transition.

There were plenty of talks of being traded, so it wasn’t a surprise. But I tried to keep my mind off it the best I can, and obviously, I wasn’t for sure it’d be the Cubs either. So, I was just waiting back, seeing what happened, and I’m happy with the way it worked out. – Braxton Garrett

Though Garrett’s time in the majors might be brief, Manager Counsell emphasizes the importance of understanding the Cubs’ pitching system. The team foresees a valuable role for Garrett next year.

It’s absolutely part of it for sure. And then there was an injury, and now you’re kind of coming back from it, and he gets dinged for that a little bit almost. But we think he’s coming into a really good spot. He pitched very well in Triple A this year, and we’re optimistic. – Manager Craig Counsell