Edward Cabrera’s Uncertain Momentum with the Chicago Cubs

The Chicago Cubs had been eyeing Edward Cabrera long before acquiring him from the Miami Marlins in January. However, Cabrera hasn’t fully shown the potential they envision for him during his first season with the team.

Before Wednesday’s game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Cabrera held a 4.06 ERA and 94 ERA+. He exited abruptly in the fourth inning due to a blister on his right middle finger after throwing just one pitch. His departure was a disappointment in the Cubs’ 5-0 loss to the Brewers, marking their first season sweep. Manager Craig Counsell stated, “We’re in a funk right now, and it’s up to us to change it. We’re the ones who are going to change it.”

Cabrera has a history of finger blisters, previously missing two weeks in the 2025 season with the Marlins for the same issue. The blister was manageable until the fourth inning, affecting his control and velocity. “Once the blister’s there, everything’s difficult. The control is difficult, velocity is difficult,” Cabrera said through an interpreter. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about pitching again soon.

The Cubs had more errors (three) than hits (two) in their season-high fifth consecutive loss. Pete Crow-Armstrong made critical errors, including mishandling David Hamilton’s single that let three runs score. His recent struggles have drawn criticism, particularly after interactions with fans. He recognized his errors, saying, “One thing I can fall back on is that it’s never really a lack of focus, but trying too hard.”

Cabrera’s performance has seen variability. After 11 2/3 scoreless innings in his first two starts, his ERA climbed to 5.26 over his last seven outings. Pitching coach Tommy Hottovy noted reduced extension in Cabrera’s release point and decreased velocity across pitches. Despite these issues, Cabrera’s changeup remains a strong weapon.

Hottovy remarked on Cabrera’s approach, suggesting he might be in “cruise-control” mode to manage past injury flare-ups. Cabrera isn’t intentionally slowing down but is pacing himself for longevity. Hottovy emphasized the importance of pitch synergy to optimize Cabrera’s repertoire. This involves protecting key pitches by skillfully mixing breaking balls and fastballs.

As the Cubs adapt to rotation injuries, Cabrera’s potential remains significant. Counsell acknowledged areas for improvement, noting quality pitching early in games but a decline in later innings. Counsell emphasized consistency and execution in Cabrera’s pitches to unlock his full potential.