Cubs can finally admit failed reunion isn't working when Daniel Palencia returns

Even though Daniel Palencia was transferred to the 60-day IL earlier this week to make room for utility infielder Owen Miller on the 40-man roster, the Chicago Cubs expect to reinstate Palencia from the IL within the next day or two.

If Palencia isn't activated for Wednesday's game against the Chicago White Sox, he almost certainly will be for the team's series against the Seattle Mariners this weekend. As for Palencia's role, pitching coach Tommy Hottovy seemed to indicate it will be the hybrid high-leverage role he was used in at the end of last season.

Perhaps there is a scenario down the line where Palencia resumes his role as the team's closer, but for now, there's no need to mess with the success Jacob Webb is having at the end of games.

Palencia's return is going to lead to some roster gymnastics for the Cubs. By moving him to the 60-day IL on Monday, the Cubs will need to clear a spot on the 40-man roster as well as the active roster. Considering the Cubs also have an off day on Thursday, the idea of Javier Assad being the odd-man out shouldn't be on the table. Instead, the Cubs should end one reunion that has looked off for most of the season.

With Daniel Palencia's looming return, the Cubs end the reunion with Caleb Thielbar

Caleb Thielbar's second act in Chicago has been a disappointment. Through 45 appearances this year, the 39-year-old has an ERA of 5.45 and giving up over two home runs per nine innings pitched. Those aren't metrics the Cubs can count on down the stretch and into the postseason. By designating Thielbar for assignment, the Cubs would have opening the space needed for Palencia's return.

As for the Cubs losing a lefty in the bullpen if they were to move on from Thielbar, Hoby Milner is expected to be back within the next week. Once Milner returns, Thielbar would probably be the third left-hander out of the bullpen, considering Ryan Rolison has emerged as the go-to option against left-handed hitters this season.

With the number of pitchers the Cubs are expected to have back in the weeks ahead, difficult decisions will need to be made. Thielbar was a success story for the Cubs last season, but for this season, the writing is on the wall, it's time to move on.

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