Jameson Taillon Designated for Assignment by Chicago Cubs

ST. LOUIS — Jameson Taillon faced reality about his struggles in Major League Baseball. Through 15 starts in 2026, he recorded a 5.92 ERA, allowing 25 home runs in 76 innings. The Chicago Cubs, aiming for playoff success, could no longer rely on him. “The results speak for themselves,” Taillon admitted after conceding seven runs on three home runs to the Pittsburgh Pirates. “I feel pressure to do better, especially for myself, but I’ve been hurting the team for a while now, so I’m aware of that.”

The Cubs decided to designate Taillon for assignment before Monday’s opener against the St. Louis Cardinals, bringing up right-hander Andrew Wantz from Triple-A Iowa. Taillon, 34, ends his Cubs tenure with a 4.21 ERA over 96 games (95 starts). Cubs manager Craig Counsell explained, “We had to make a hard decision on Jameson pitching again. With where we are in the season, we didn’t see it happening.” Despite Taillon’s contributions to team culture, Cubs needed better performance in their rotation.

Taillon’s statistics showed struggles. His -1.1 fWAR and 6.74 FIP were the worst among MLB pitchers this season. His pitching approach, particularly his four-seam fastball and cutter, was ineffective, with .329 and .298 batting averages against, respectively. His command suffered, leading to a career-worst 56.1% first-pitch strike rate, a drop from the previous year.

The Cubs hoped adjustments during his hamstring recovery would improve his performance. However, his comeback starts didn’t yield positive results. Counsell noted, “Hitters were showing us something different, focusing more on production.”

Javier Assad is set to fill Taillon’s starting spot Friday against the New York Yankees. The upcoming trade deadline may also offer rotation support, and right-hander Edward Cabrera aims for a mid-August return.

Taillon’s departure impacted the Cubs’ clubhouse. Counsell praised him for teaching professionalism, an area where many players seek guidance. Dansby Swanson called it a tough day for the organization, emphasizing Taillon’s approachability. “On my Mount Rushmore of teammates,” Swanson remarked. Taillon’s long-term friendship with Swanson resonates despite his struggles.

Nico Hoerner, following a 7-3 win against St. Louis, shared fond memories of Taillon’s off-field contributions. “The fifth day shows a guy on the mound, but Jameson’s conduct in group chats and plane rides was standout.” Left-hander Matthew Boyd highlighted Taillon’s consistency. “Showing up the same way every day, regardless of performance, takes strength,” Boyd stated. Ian Happ, the longest-tenured Cub, echoed these sentiments, finding the departure challenging due to personal bonds.

Taillon has previously demonstrated the ability to adjust mid-season. Towards the end of 2025, he posted a 1.85 ERA over seven starts, delivering in crucial postseason games. Counsell reflected on this season’s lack of such moments, impacting the decision to give further opportunities.

The end of Taillon’s Cubs contract wasn’t envisioned this way. He reached 10 years of service time on May 25, and despite departing Chicago, pitching coach Tommy Hottovy believes Taillon’s career may continue elsewhere. Sorting technical issues with his delivery is crucial for his future.

Boyd summarized, “Performance is the measure, and we’re all held to it. Understanding doesn’t make these moments easier.”