Cubs should play it safe with Edward Cabrera's injury but might not be able to

The Chicago Cubs are in an awkward spot with Edward Cabrera. Cabrera suffered a blister during start against the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday night, forcing him to leave the game early. It's something that Cabrera dealt with during his time with the Miami Marlins, and considering his overall track record with injuries, the Cubs should play it safe.

The problem with that theory is that the Cubs already without Matthew Boyd, Justin Steele, and Cade Horton. The Cubs' pitching depth has been hanging on by a thread during the first two months of the regular season, and losing Cabrera would feel like the straw that finally broke the camel's back. Especially considering the regression the Cubs have seen from Jameson Taillon this season, and Colin Rea becoming overexposed in the starting rotation.

If the Cubs' rotation was healthy, the decision would be clear. Preserve the innings left in Cabrera's arm this season, and make sure he is ready for the final two months of the regular season. In other words, they would be comfortable with him missing the next couple of weeks.

But if Cabrera isn't ready for his next start, scheduled for Tuesday against the Pittsburgh Pirates, they may have no choice but to place him on the IL. Speaking with reporters on Wednesday night, Craig Counsell wouldn't confirm if Cabrera would be ready in time.

Jordan Wicks might be the next man up...

For Cubs fans who have been wondering when Jordan Wicks could get his next opportunity with the Cubs, the answer may be as early as next week. Earlier this week, Jed Hoyer all but indicated the Cubs are factoring Wicks into their equation for the 2026 season, but they want to make sure he's at a point where he's having success consistently.

Over his last three starts with the Iowa Cubs, Wicks has only allowed one run while striking out 12 in 15 innings of work. That is the type of consistency the Hoyer may have been alluding to, and likely what makes him the next man up for the Cubs' pitching staff.

To be clear, the Cubs certainly need a healthy Cabrera if they are going to come close to living up to the expectations they had at the start of the season. But, right now, as risky as it sounds, the best thing may be to create some additional rest for the 27-year-old starting pitcher.

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