Cubs Designate Jameson Taillon For Assignment: What It Means for Chicago

Background Context

Jameson Taillon joined the Cubs on a four-year, $68 million contract in December 2022. After pitching reasonably well in 2024 and 2025, the 2026 campaign has been a nightmare. His issues stem primarily from an inability to keep the ball in the ballpark — his 25 home runs allowed are among the worst in the league relative to innings pitched.

The Cubs' decision, compiled by Yanuki using the latest trends and data, reflects a broader urgency. With the trade deadline looming, Chicago is firmly in contention mode. Manager Craig Counsell had already hinted at changes when asked about Taillon's rotation spot after Sunday's loss to Pittsburgh, stating the team would "discuss" options. Twenty-four hours later, the decision was made.

What's Next for Taillon?

A DFA gives the Cubs seven days to either trade Taillon, release him, or send him outright to the minors (if he clears waivers). Given his contract situation — he's a soon-to-be free agent — a trade is possible if the Cubs are willing to eat most of the remaining salary. Teams like the Angels or Giants, who need innings-eaters, could emerge as potential suitors. In return, the Cubs might receive a low-level prospect.

What's Next for the Cubs?

With Taillon gone, right-hander Javier Assad is the leading candidate to start on Friday against the Yankees at Wrigley Field. However, the Cubs are expected to be aggressive buyers before the trade deadline, targeting starting pitching upgrades. Rumors have linked Chicago to top arms, and this roster flexibility — both financially and on the 40-man roster — could facilitate a significant acquisition.

Who This Affects Most: Cubs fans, fantasy baseball owners who rostered Taillon, and contending teams looking for rotation depth on the cheap.

What does "designated for assignment" mean?

The Cubs have seven days to either trade Taillon, release him, or place him on outright waivers. If he clears waivers, he can be sent to the minor leagues, though he may refuse the assignment due to his service time.

Could Taillon be traded?

Yes. If the Cubs are willing to absorb most of his remaining salary, teams in need of a veteran innings-eater — such as the Angels or Giants — could strike a deal for a low-level prospect.

Who is Andrew Wantz?

Wantz is a 30-year-old right-handed reliever who made 91 appearances (four starts) for the Angels from 2021-24 with a 3.88 ERA. He was signed by the Cubs as a minor league free agent in June and posted a 4.32 ERA over seven appearances at Triple-A Iowa.

Will this affect the Cubs' playoff chances?

Likely positively. Taillon was hurting the team with poor outings. The Cubs hold a four-game lead for the first NL Wild Card spot, and upgrading in the rotation — either via internal options or trade — should strengthen their postseason push.

Do you think the Cubs made the right call designating Jameson Taillon for assignment, or should they have given him more time to turn things around? Which starting pitcher do you think Chicago should target before the trade deadline?

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