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MESA, Ariz. — Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell acknowledged the reality facing right-hander Jameson Taillon on Tuesday.
Counsell said it’s “fair to say” Taillon’s lingering lower back strain makes opening day unlikely, which leaves the veteran starting the season on the 15-day injured list. Players can get a three-day backdate on the IL to start the year.
“You kind of make a decision, like whether or not he can make the first rotation (via conversion), otherwise you have to go (on the IL) and a first rotation is unlikely at this point.” Counsell said.
The program is working against Taillon to properly prepare for the season that begins March 28. Taillon did not pitch in a Cactus League game and last faced hitters in a simulated game in the backfield on March 4.
Counsell stated that the imaging revealed nothing and Taillon’s original diagnosis remains valid. But until he throws a bullpen, the Cubs don’t have a clear timeline for when Taillon could join the rotation. It was scheduled to light up on Tuesday.
“That depends on a lot of the days we don’t pitch,” Counsell said. “… The reality is that we need to get into game action at least four times every five days to prepare you as a starter.”
Gaming action could include sim games in addition to Cactus League debuts, but either way, Taillon still has a long way to go to get where he needs to be.
Taillon is no stranger to dealing with early-season injury trouble. Taillon, who made three starts at the beginning of April last year, missed three weeks due to a groin injury.
The Cubs are better prepared to absorb his absence. Left-handers Drew Smyly and Jordan Wicks and right-handers Javier Assad and Hayden Wesneski were already on the roster for the fifth rotation spot. Those who did not start the season in the rotation were also expected to play in the arena. As the Cubs plan how they will choose to use their pitching staff while maintaining flexibility with their minor league options over the next two weeks, Counsell still has plenty of options to fill the void that is currently expected to be two starters.