Chicago Cubs Face Playoff Pitching Decisions Amid Gausman’s Injury

The Chicago Cubs will gain clarity on several fronts as the regular season concludes on Sunday. Not only will they determine their opponent for the wild-card series starting Tuesday, but they will also finalize their pitching strategy. A key concern is the status of right-hander Kevin Gausman, who will throw an important bullpen session on Sunday at Tropicana Field in Tampa, Florida.

Gausman left his Wednesday start in the sixth inning due to a left shoulder injury sustained during a game against the Miami Marlins. He dived to tag a runner advancing to an uncovered third base and felt immediate weakness in his shoulder, a previous injury site from high school. Despite not undergoing imaging, the Cubs are closely monitoring his condition, manager Craig Counsell confirmed before Friday’s doubleheader in Boston.

Gausman’s recent performances have been inconsistent, yet he managed to pitch into the sixth inning in his last two starts, allowing two runs each time. His experience, particularly from last year’s World Series with the Toronto Blue Jays, is considered valuable. Although his injured shoulder is not his throwing arm, Gausman emphasized its role in stabilizing his delivery.

If Gausman is unavailable for the wild-card round, the Cubs might turn to other options. Left-hander Matthew Boyd and Shota Imanaga are potential candidates. Right-hander Clay Holmes could also feature in game plans, along with left-hander David Peterson, who remains a key part of the pitching strategy. Counsell emphasizes maximizing the staff’s capabilities to secure outs efficiently in the postseason.

Peterson commented on the importance of maintaining peak performance during this critical time, noting the versatility that might be required from starters during the playoffs. The Cubs continue to prepare for various scenarios and will adapt based on available options and performance.