Latest Ben Brown injury update hurts Cubs plan for bullpen reinforcements

In an unfortunate update regarding Chicago Cubs rookie Ben Brown, he has been shut down from throwing again. Patrick Mooney tweeted that Craig Counsell said Brown is not symptom-free and is currently without a timetable to restart his throwing program.

Taylor McGregor also tweeted that the Cubs are hopeful for a return in 2024, but they won't be aggressive about him returning. Even though the Cubs have been making headway in the standings and are set to face six teams in a row with sub-.500 records, pushing Brown to get back any sooner is highly detrimental.

Brown was off to a great start in his official rookie campaign, notching a 3.58 ERA in 55.1 IP. His 3.12 FIP indicates that he was better than it appeared, with spotty defense or lousy luck playing a factor. If you can take a 3.58 ERA, or well above league average this season, and say that number is inflated, then Brown's season was going tremendously.

Appearing in 15 games, Brown made eight starts on the year but was much better as a starter, compiling a 3.21 ERA in 39 of his innings pitched. Now, his setback is unfortunate, given that the team could use as many arms as possible for this upcoming make-or-break stretch. Given that he hasn't pitched since early June, a lengthy rehab outing will be likely once he's throwing without pain.

Thankfully, the Cubs' bullpen has been much better since Brown initially went down with injury. In fact, they have been one of the best bullpens in baseball, and their starting rotation has continued to be a strength. The worst part about Brown's injury has nothing to do with finding someone to take his place, but it is just that he was breaking out and becoming a formidable pitcher in MLB. Hopefully, he's back before the end of the year and can get that much-needed in-game experience to continue developing.