In a surprising move that has sent shockwaves through the baseball world, sources close to the situation have revealed that the Chicago Cubs are designating former closer Adbert Alzolay for assignment. The decision comes as Alzolay, 29, faces a lengthy recovery process after undergoing Tommy John surgery in August.
A Promising Career Derailed by Injury
Alzolay, once a rising star in the Cubs organization, has seen his career trajectory altered by the elbow injury that required surgical intervention. The right-hander, who has been with the Cubs for six years, started and saved a total of 27 games during his tenure in Chicago.
According to sources, Alzolay is not expected to be available to pitch until late in the 2025 season, a timeline that likely factored into the Cubs’ decision to part ways with their former closer. The move opens up a spot on the team’s 40-man roster, providing flexibility as they navigate the offseason.
A Look Back at Alzolay’s Cubs Career
Since making his debut with the Cubs in 2019, Alzolay has compiled a 12-25 record with a respectable 4.04 ERA. His most successful season came in 2023 when he emerged as the team’s closer, saving 22 games and posting a stellar 2.67 ERA across 64 innings pitched.
However, Alzolay’s performance took a step back in 2024, leading to him losing the closer’s role and ultimately suffering the season-ending injury that has now put his future with the Cubs in jeopardy.
Adbert showed a lot of promise early on, especially during that 2023 season. It’s unfortunate to see injuries derail his progress, but that’s the nature of the game sometimes.
– A source close to the Cubs organization
From Starter to Reliever: Alzolay’s Evolving Role
Interestingly, Alzolay initially broke into the majors as a starting pitcher back in 2021. However, the Cubs ultimately determined that his skill set was better suited for the bullpen, a role in which he found success, albeit briefly.
The transition from starter to reliever is not uncommon in baseball, as many pitchers find their niche in the later innings. For Alzolay, the move to the bullpen allowed him to focus on his strengths and become a valuable asset to the Cubs’ relief corps.
What’s Next for Alzolay and the Cubs?
As Alzolay begins the arduous process of rehabbing from Tommy John surgery, his baseball future remains uncertain. The Cubs, who will be responsible for the cost of his rehabilitation unless he is claimed by another team, are moving forward with their roster plans.
For the 29-year-old right-hander, the road ahead is long and challenging. Tommy John surgery typically requires a 12-18 month recovery period, during which time Alzolay will need to gradually work his way back to full strength.
Should he go unclaimed on waivers, Alzolay could potentially re-sign with the Cubs on a minor league deal, allowing him to continue his rehab under the team’s supervision. However, it remains to be seen whether the Cubs would be interested in such an arrangement.
The Ripple Effect on the Cubs’ Bullpen
With Alzolay no longer in the picture, the Cubs will need to look elsewhere for bullpen reinforcements. The team could opt to promote from within, giving opportunities to young relievers who have been waiting in the wings.
Alternatively, the Cubs may choose to explore the free agent market or pursue trades to bolster their relief corps. As a big-market team with resources to spare, the Cubs have the ability to make a splash if they identify a target that fits their needs.
Losing Alzolay creates a void in our bullpen, but we’re confident in the talent we have in our system. We’ll explore all avenues to ensure we have a strong and reliable relief corps moving forward.
– A Cubs front office source
A Reminder of Baseball’s Unpredictability
The news of Adbert Alzolay’s designation for assignment serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of baseball. Even the most promising young players can see their careers sidetracked by injury, leaving teams to make difficult decisions about their future.
As the Cubs move forward without their once-promising closer, fans will undoubtedly reflect on the highs and lows of Alzolay’s time in Chicago. From his early days as a starter to his brief success as a closer, Alzolay’s story is one of perseverance and the challenges that come with life in the big leagues.
Only time will tell what the future holds for Adbert Alzolay and the Chicago Cubs. For now, the baseball world will watch with interest as this latest chapter in the team’s history unfolds, a reminder of the ever-changing landscape of America’s pastime.
