SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – August 23, 2026: Cubs manager Craig Counsell addresses the squad ahead of a matchup against the Seattle Mariners at T-Mobile Park. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
Chicago Cubs skipper Craig Counsell has earned a reputation as a dependable dugout leader, drawing on his accomplished Brewers tenure to steer a roster hungry for national league contention.
His willingness to pursue unconventional roster strategies has become a hallmark of his tenure in Chicago, yet he consistently eschews direct player comparisons—refusing to measure one competitor against another.
But as the postseason approaches, Counsell departed that caution.
“There was a notable exception this week,” he stated when referencing a specific transaction. “Roki Sasaki demonstrated an exceptional trajectory just last month, transitioning effectively through the playoffs. That evolution serves as a promising framework for our own situation. While not necessarily the most optimal outcome, there is real potential in replicating that approach.”
Sasaki’s advancement occurred at a critical juncture in his season. After shifting to a bullpen role in September of the prior year, the right-handed fireman became instrumental to the Los Angeles team’s World Series triumph in October, posting a 0.84 ERA throughout nine postseason games—including multiple long durability displays. If Edward Cabrera follows a comparable trajectory, it could mark a dramatic turning point for the North Siders.
Efforts to accelerate Cabrera’s return involved strategic adjustments. The Cubs activated him from a 15-day injured list following another recurring blister on his pitching wrist. Consequently, right-hander Trent Thornton has been excused from duties, clearing space for the 24-year-old after returning from the IL.
“The path for Cabrera mirrors Sasaki’s—utilizing his power stock while moderating start frequency to protect longevity,” notes analyst Marcus Liu. “If he achieves a sustainable rhythm, this decision could be nothing short of electrifying for Chicago.”
This relocation signals a fundamental departure from the organization’s initial approach. Originally, Cubs acquired Cabrera anticipating contributions as a regular starter, only to disrupt that schedule through persistent injury setbacks. Now positioned in the bullpen, the right-hander presents a distinct avenue for maximizing offensive potential against higher-profile targets while preserving health for potential starts.
As the season concluded its final stretch with postseason aspirations—and a bullpen requiring ongoing development—the acquisition transforms into one of the most intriguing variables facing the Cubs’ championship journey.
