Cubs Activate Michael Soroka from IL: RHP Transitioned to Reliever Role

Cubs Reinstate pitcher Michael Soroka, Make Roster Moves

September 15, 2025, 6:06 PM ET

Pittsburgh, PA – The Chicago Cubs bolstered their pitching staff on Monday by reinstating Right-Hander Michael Soroka from the 15-day injured list prior to their contest against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Soroka delivered two innings of relief in the Cubs’ 4-0 win.

Soroka’s Return and Role Change

Initially acquired from the Washington Nationals with expectations of being a starting pitcher, Soroka’s role has shifted due to a recent injury. He made his debut with the Cubs on August 4th against the Cincinnati Reds, though, exited the game after only two innings with a right shoulder strain. following a successful rehab assignment with Triple-A Iowa-where he conceded just one run across 2.3 innings-Soroka is now slated to contribute from the bullpen.

Roster Adjustments and Player Updates

To make room for Soroka’s return, Right-Hander Ben Brown was optioned to Triple-A Iowa. Brown has appeared in 25 games for the Cubs this season, making 15 starts, and currently holds a 5-8 record with a 5.92 ERA.

Several other player updates were reported. Cubs closer Daniel Palencia resumed throwing off the mound for the first time as being placed on the injured list September 8th with a right shoulder strain. palencia has successfully converted 22 of 25 save opportunities this season and maintains a 3.00 ERA in 52 games.

Designated hitter Seiya Suzuki was held out of Monday’s lineup due to bronchitis. Catcher miguel Amaya has commenced a rehab assignment with Iowa, recovering from both a left ankle sprain (as August 14th) and a previously sustained strained oblique. He has seen limited action recently, appearing in only one major league game since May 25th.

Cubs’ Playoff Position

The Cubs currently hold the first National League Wild card position, intensifying the importance of every game as the postseason approaches.

Player	status	Injury/Reason
michael Soroka	Activated	Right Shoulder Strain
Ben Brown	optioned to Triple-A Iowa	Roster Spot
Daniel Palencia	Rehab	Right Shoulder Strain
Seiya Suzuki	Out of Lineup	Bronchitis
Miguel Amaya	Rehab Assignment	left Ankle Sprain/Strained oblique

Did you know? According to MLB.com, teams with a strong bullpen have a 68% chance of making the playoffs, highlighting the importance of having reliable relief pitchers like Soroka.

Pro Tip: Monitoring player injury reports and rehab assignments can give fans a competitive edge in fantasy baseball.

The Importance of Bullpen Depth in Modern Baseball

In today’s Major League Baseball, a strong and versatile bullpen is crucial for success. the increasing emphasis on data-driven pitching strategies and the rise of specialized relievers have made bullpen management a key component of winning baseball. Teams are now more likely to carry multiple relievers with distinct skill sets, capable of handling specific situations late in games.

The Cubs’ decision to utilize soroka as a reliever demonstrates this trend. While initially envisioned as a starter, his ability to provide high-leverage innings out of the bullpen could prove invaluable down the stretch.

Frequently Asked Questions About Michael Soroka

• What is Michael Soroka’s current role with the Cubs? Soroka is currently being used as a relief pitcher after recovering from a right shoulder strain.
• Where did the Cubs acquire Michael Soroka from? The Cubs traded for Michael Soroka from the Washington Nationals.
• what was Soroka’s initial role expected to be? He was initially expected to be a starting pitcher for the Cubs.
• What is the latest update on Daniel Palencia’s injury? Palencia has resumed throwing off the mound as part of his rehab process.
• What is Seiya Suzuki’s current condition? Seiya Suzuki was unavailable for Monday’s game due to bronchitis.

Do you think Soroka’s transition to the bullpen will be a success for the Cubs? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What potential benefits does transitioning Soroka to a relief role offer in managing his workload and minimizing the risk of re-injury, given his history of arm injuries?

Soroka’s Return & The Cubs’ Bullpen Boost

The Chicago Cubs announced today, September 16, 2025, the activation of right-handed pitcher Michael Soroka from the injured list (IL). This move provides a important injection of talent into a Cubs bullpen aiming for a strong finish to the season.However, the return isn’t as a starter; Soroka is transitioning to a relief role. This strategic shift marks a notable change for the 26-year-old, previously a highly-regarded starting prospect.

Injury History & Road to Recovery

Soroka’s journey back to the mound hasn’t been without hurdles. He’s battled through multiple arm injuries, including a torn Achilles tendon suffered in 2021, and more recently, a forearm strain that landed him on the IL.

* 2021 Achilles Tear: A devastating blow that sidelined him for over a year.

* 2023 Forearm Strain: limited his appearances and effectiveness.

* 2025 Forearm Strain: The most recent setback, leading to his current IL stint.

His recovery process involved extensive rehabilitation, focusing on strengthening and regaining full range of motion. The Cubs medical staff closely monitored his progress, ensuring a cautious and calculated return.

The Shift to the Bullpen: Why Now?

The decision to move Soroka to a relief role isn’t a reflection of his talent, but rather a strategic move by the Cubs’ management. Several factors contributed to this decision:

1. Bullpen Needs: The Cubs have been seeking reliable high-leverage arms, particularly late in close games. Soroka’s stuff – a fastball averaging 94 mph and a developing slider – profiles well for shorter,more intense outings.
2. Managing Workload: After multiple injuries,easing Soroka back into the majors as a reliever allows the team to carefully manage his workload and minimize the risk of re-injury.
3. Starting Rotation Stability: The Cubs’ starting rotation has been relatively stable,making a permanent spot for Soroka as a starter less readily available.
4. Potential for Dominance: A shorter role could allow Soroka to focus on maximizing velocity and refining his secondary pitches, possibly leading to dominant performances.

Soroka’s Pitch Arsenal & Scouting Report

Michael Soroka possesses a three-pitch mix, with his fastball being his primary weapon.

* Fastball: Averages 94 mph, with good sink and run.

* Slider: Developing pitch with potential for swing-and-miss. Currently averaging around 86 mph.

* Changeup: Used sparingly, but shows flashes of effectiveness.

Scouts note Soroka’s excellent command and ability to locate pitches. His success in the bullpen will hinge on his ability to consistently hit his spots and maintain velocity in shorter bursts. He’s been described as a “pitchability” type, meaning he relies more on movement and location than overpowering hitters.

Impact on the Cubs’ Playoff Push

The addition of a healthy Soroka,even in a relief role,considerably strengthens the Cubs’ chances in a competitive National League playoff race.A reliable bullpen is crucial for postseason success,and Soroka’s potential to become a key late-inning arm could be a game-changer.

* High-Leverage Situations: Expect to see Soroka deployed in the 7th and 8th innings of close games.

* Matchup Specialist: His ability to pitch effectively against both left-handed and right-handed hitters makes him a versatile option.

* Increased Bullpen Depth: Provides manager Craig Counsell with more options and flexibility.

Soroka’s Career Stats (Prior to 2025 Activation)

Season	Team	Role	ERA	W-L	SV	IP	SO
2018	Atlanta	Starter	2.95	5-2	0	77.2	74
2019	Atlanta	Starter	2.67	10-5	0	173.1	142
2020	Atlanta	Starter	3.57	3-1	0	39.2	35
2021	Atlanta	Starter	N/A	0-0	0	0	0
2022	Chicago	Starter	4.80	2-3	0	51.1	38

| 2023 | Chicago | Starter| 6.72 | 0-