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Hoyer Takes Blame for Cubs' Underperforming Bullpen
3 Oct
Summary
- Hoyer accepted blame for the Cubs' bullpen performance this year.
- Acquired relievers did not produce as well as expected last winter.
- Bullpen converted only 56 percent of save chances, worse than most teams.
Jed Hoyer, Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations, has acknowledged shortcomings in the team's bullpen strategy for the 2026 season. He stated that he performed poorly in addressing the bullpen needs during the previous winter. The relievers acquired did not deliver the expected performance.
The Cubs' bullpen converted just 56 percent of their save opportunities, a rate higher than only five other teams in the league. This underperformance was exacerbated by injuries, notably to closer Daniel Palencia, who was limited to 32 appearances. Another key acquisition, Shelby Miller, missed the entire season due to Tommy John surgery.
While Hoyer was not blamed for pitching injuries to starters, he faces pressure to improve bullpen acquisitions for the upcoming 2027 season. The team hopes for healthier seasons from pitchers like Miller and Palencia to bolster the bullpen significantly.
