Cubs brace for Braves showdown as Taillon returns from IL to face Sale in pivotal Truist Park clash
The Chicago Cubs are set to conclude their three-game series against the Atlanta Braves on Wednesday night at Truist Park, a matchup that promises to carry significant implications as the postseason approaches.
Injury Challenges for the Cubs
Despite the excitement surrounding the game, the Cubs are grappling with a wave of injuries. Outfielder Kyle Tucker has been placed on the 10-day injured list due to a lingering calf issue that failed to improve with rest. This development comes as the team looks to strengthen its roster with the return of Jameson Taillon, who is expected to provide crucial support for ace Shota Imanaga as the season winds down.
Following this series, Chicago will enjoy a day off before returning home to face the Tampa Bay Rays in a three-game set at Wrigley Field. While the Cubs are virtually assured a spot in the National League wild card, the Rays are in a tight race for a wild card berth in the American League, making for an interesting series ahead.
How to Follow the Action
Fans eager to catch the action can tune in as follows:
Date: Wednesday, September 10
Time: 6:15 p.m. CT
Watch: Marquee Sports Network (Cubs); FanDuel Sports Network South and Southeast (Braves)
Listen: 670 The Score, WRTO 1200 (Cubs); 680 AM/93.7 FM The Fan, La Mejor 1600/1460/1130 AM (Braves)
Location: Truist Park, Atlanta (Cobb County, Ga.)
Probable Pitchers: A Tale of Returns
On the mound, the Cubs will turn to Jameson Taillon (9-6, 4.15 ERA), who is making his return from the 15-day injured list. Taillon last pitched on August 24, where he secured a win after tossing five innings, allowing just three hits and one earned run while striking out three. Although he has faced challenges this season, including injuries that limited him to just 19 starts, Taillon has shown flashes of effectiveness, winning two of his last three outings. Over his last seven starts, he boasts a 4.86 ERA with 81 strikeouts in 106.1 innings of work, while limiting opponents to a .232 batting average.
Opposing him will be Chris Sale (5-4, 2.38 ERA) of the Braves, who has returned to form after a lengthy absence due to a fractured left rib cage. Sale’s comeback began on August 30, and he has since been a dominant force on the mound. In his last start against Seattle, he pitched 6.2 innings, yielding only four hits and one earned run while striking out nine. Over his last seven outings, he has compiled a 0.95 ERA, showcasing his ability to miss bats with 60 strikeouts in 47.1 innings. With batters hitting just .225 against him, Sale’s resurgence poses a significant challenge to the Cubs’ lineup.
Current Injury Report for the Cubs
The Cubs’ injury list continues to grow, impacting their depth as they make a final push for the postseason:
Kyle Tucker, OF (10-day IL, left calf tightness): Placed on September 9, eligible to return September 17.
Daniel Palencia, RHP (15-day IL, right shoulder strain): Manager Craig Counsell remains uncertain about his return timeline.
Jameson Taillon, RHP (15-day IL, left groin strain): Expected to start Wednesday.
Michael Soroka, RHP (15-day IL, right shoulder discomfort): Scheduled for a rehab start at Triple-A Iowa.
Ryan Brasier, RHP (15-day IL, left groin strain): In Atlanta to throw a bullpen session.
Miguel Amaya, C (10-day IL, left ankle sprain): Hopes remain that he can return by the end of the regular season despite a recent setback.
Eli Morgan, RHP (60-day IL, right elbow): Currently on a rehab assignment.
Justin Steele, LHP (60-day IL, left elbow surgery): Out for the season after undergoing surgery.
As the Cubs gear up for this crucial matchup against the Braves, all eyes will be on Taillon’s performance as he seeks to stabilize the rotation and help propel his team through the remaining stretch of the season.
