Daniel Palencia Secured Scoreless Innings in Cubs Win
The relief pitcher dominated the Reds in a 5-2 victory as the Cubs chase a wild-card playoff berth.
Updated on Sept. 20, 2026 in Baseball
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Daniel Palencia pitched two scoreless innings and struck out three batters to help the Cubs defeat the Reds 5-2 on Saturday. The performance came as the relief pitcher seeks to regain his role as the team's closer.
Why it matters
The win bolsters the Cubs' pursuit of a wild-card playoff spot during a critical stretch of the season. Palencia's effective outing provided a necessary boost for a bullpen that has seen 14 different players record a save this year.
Daniel Palencia averaged 99.5 mph on his fastball and hit 100 mph four times while throwing 20 pitches, 15 of which were strikes. He retired all six batters he faced during his two-inning relief appearance.
The players
Daniel Palencia
He is a relief pitcher for the Chicago Cubs who is currently working to regain his high-leverage role in the bullpen.
Ian Happ
He is a versatile outfielder for the Chicago Cubs who has shown a significant platoon split against left-handed pitching this season.
Justin Steele
He is a starting pitcher for the Chicago Cubs currently working through a rehab assignment following a lengthy absence.
Tyrone Taylor
He is an outfielder for the Chicago Cubs who provides tactical value against left-handed starters due to his specific platoon splits.
Trent Thornton
He is a pitcher currently fulfilling rehab duties for the Triple-A Iowa affiliate.
The details
Palencia's appearance served as a high-leverage test, while the lineup adjustment saw Tyrone Taylor start in left field against left-handed pitcher Nick Lodolo. This move was tactical, as Ian Happ has struggled against left-handed pitching with a .494 OPS compared to his .826 mark against right-handers.
Timeline
Saturday: Daniel Palencia pitched against the Reds.
Sunday: Trent Thornton rehab appearance for Triple-A Iowa.
Tuesday: Justin Steele returns to Chicago for staff evaluation.
April 7, 2025: Justin Steele's last big-league game appearance.
Friday: Justin Steele's rehab appearance for Triple-A Iowa.
Season Trajectory
This win keeps the Cubs within striking distance of a playoff berth, putting pressure on divisional rivals as the schedule winds down. The team's ability to cycle through 14 different save-eligible pitchers underscores a volatile but deep roster composition heading into the final games.
The use of Tyrone Taylor over Ian Happ against left-handed starters suggests a continued reliance on platoon splits that dictates daily lineup configurations for fantasy managers. Palencia's successful two-inning stint suggests he may see increased save opportunities as he competes with other bullpen arms for closing duties.
The takeaway
Reliable high-leverage pitching remains the most critical factor for teams pushing for a final wild-card spot. Strategic platooning will continue to be a primary tool for managers seeking to maximize run production against specific pitcher handedness.
What happens next
The team will evaluate Justin Steele on Tuesday to determine if he can be added to a potential postseason roster, following his Friday rehab outing.
Further reading
For more updates on the team's postseason hunt, visit our Baseball section.
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