Cubs quickly undo puzzling David Peterson decision that never made sense

Before the additions of Kevin Gausman and Clay Holmes at the trade deadline, the Chicago Cubs' decision to trade for David Peterson was the lifeline that saved the season. Peterson struggled to open the 2026 season with the New York Mets, and since his arrival to the Cubs, provided the stability that was desperately needed in the rotation.

Over his last 35 innings pitched with the Cubs, Peterson had an ERA of 2.06 with a ground-ball rate over 53%. Once it became clear that there was going to be a need for shuffling across the rotation after the trades for Gausman and Holmes, it also became clear that Peterson should remain in the rotation.

That's why it felt like a disappointment last weekend when Craig Counsell initially revealed that Peterson would be moving to the bullpen upon Edward Cabrera's return from injury. It was inevitable that someone was going to be forced out of the rotation, but Peterson's success made it clear that he shouldn't be the odd-man out.

Cubs' probables against Mariners confirms David Peterson is back where he belongs

There's still a question of whether or not Peterson will be a part of the postseason rotation, but for the regular season, the Cubs have their answer. It appears Craig Counsell is aware of that reality, as the Cubs have announced that Peterson is scheduled to start against the Seattle Mariners on Saturday night.

Matthew Boyd starts tonight for the Cubs, and Shota Imanaga will take the mound in the finale on Sunday. Further confirmation that, assuming he's not optioned to Triple-A Iowa, Javier Assad will continue to serve as a bulk option out of the bullpen.

As for what the means for Cabrera, he probably will be ticketed for bullpen role once he returns from this latest blister that landed him on the IL.

Beyond this season, the Cubs certainly will need Cabrera to have an impact out of the starting rotation. For better or worse, it's become clear that impact is not going to be had this season. Outside of Shota Imanaga, Cabrera has become the glaring unknown when talking through the Cubs' starting rotation options.

That hasn't been the case with Peterson. In six of his eight appearances for the Cubs this season, Peterson has allowed two runs or less. That consistency is what the Cubs can count on as they construct their pitching staff for the rest of the regular season and into October.

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