Cubs Anticipate Michael Soroka’s Return as Wild Card Race Intensifies
The Chicago Cubs may not have made the high-profile trades that some of their rivals pursued at the MLB trade deadline, but they strategically reinforced their roster with key acquisitions. A notable addition was pitcher Michael Soroka, a former standout with the Washington Nationals and Atlanta Braves. Though his time in a Cubs uniform has been limited to just one game—where he allowed one run over two innings before landing on the injured list—there’s reason for optimism as he prepares to make his return to the mound.
Positive Updates for Soroka
After a month-long stint on the injured list, Cubs manager Craig Counsell shared encouraging news regarding Soroka’s status. Jay Cohen reported that Soroka is set to be activated for his next Major League appearance, although the exact date remains undetermined.
Counsell remarked, “He’ll be activated with us for his next outing. We’ll see on the date right now.” This announcement follows Soroka’s recent outing in Triple-A, where he pitched 2.1 innings and showcased an uptick in fastball velocity—an encouraging sign pointing toward his readiness for the big leagues.
A Welcome Reinforcement
Soroka’s acquisition from the Nationals came at the cost of two minor league prospects, Ronny Cruz and Christian Franklin. His transition to the Cubs has been hampered by a shoulder injury that sidelined him since early August. Prior to his injury, Soroka made 16 starts for the Nationals, posting a 4.87 ERA with a 3-8 record, supplemented by 87 strikeouts against 24 walks over 81.1 innings—an ERA+ of 85 that suggests he has room for improvement.
As the Cubs navigate a competitive wild card race, Soroka’s impending return could prove pivotal. The team is poised to face the Tampa Bay Rays in a three-game series over the weekend before traveling to Pittsburgh and Cincinnati to take on the Pirates and Reds. Soroka’s reintegration into the rotation is likely to occur during one of these matchups.
Looking Ahead
While the precise timing of Soroka’s return remains uncertain, his readiness to pitch again is a significant boost for the Cubs as they aim to secure a postseason berth. With the stakes high in the final stretch of the season, the Cubs’ management and fans alike will be eagerly watching to see how Soroka reinvents himself on the mound. His performance not only carries implications for his career but also for the Cubs’ aspirations in a tightly contested playoff landscape.
