Cubs get deflating Ben Brown news with return hopes suddenly fading

Just when it seemed that Ben Brown was on the verge of starting a minor-league rehab assignment for the Chicago Cubs, Craig Counsell revealed that Brown is once again experiencing symptoms and will travel back with the team after Wednesday's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks to consult with doctors regarding next steps.

Brown has been sidelined with a stress reaction in his neck since the middle of June, and it was similar to the one that ended his season prematurely in 2024. While the Cubs had been hopeful that Brown would return this season, part of the recovery process was determining the best path forward so that this type of injury can be avoided.

It would seem that the Cubs are back at the drawing board. Brown threw live bullpen session last Friday, and another one on Tuesday. Towards the end of his outing, the symptoms returned and only managed to get worse as the day progressed.

This is part of the reason why the Cubs were slow-playing Brown's recovery. He had been asymptomatic for several weeks, but the Cubs were hoping it would reach a point that once he ramped his throwing program back up, there wouldn't be a negative impact.

The Cubs had already ruled out the idea that Brown would return to the rotation, but the hope was that he could be a potential bulk option out of the bullpen in September and into the playoffs. A bullpen that suddenly looks shaky, considering the recent struggles of Jacob Webb and the unclarity surrounding Daniel Palencia's role.

Cubs may have to abandon Ben Brown return hopes after abrupt setback

From a timing standpoint, Brown's setback likely makes it harder for him to return this season. Once Brown is cleared, his throwing program will need to restart from step one. Considering it took Brown several weeks of just throwing before throwing bullpen sessions, the calendar likely won't play in his favor.

At this point, that could be the best decision for all involved. As much as a healthy Brown could be a difference maker for the Cubs in the playoffs, the emphasis is on a healthy Brown. Not to mention, the importance Brown could have for the starting rotation next season. The Cubs need to figure out why these symptoms keep returning, and if there's a change needed with Brown's mechanics to lessen the pressue on his neck.

It's not an ideal position for the Cubs to be in, considering the uncertainty that surrounds their pitching staff after this season, but it's a qustion that must be answered.

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