Chicago Managers Face Bullpen Challenges Amid Key Games

Craig Counsell and Will Venable observed similar outcomes from their bullpens on Saturday. Counsell watched his Chicago Cubs lose an 8-6 decision to the Toronto Blue Jays, squandering a 5-0 lead. Venable’s Chicago White Sox bullpen faltered as well, losing 4-1 to the Detroit Tigers, following a bullpen day owing to the absence of a fifth starter.

The White Sox bullpen continued its struggles on Sunday, surrendering leads in the ninth and 10th innings, resulting in a 5-4 defeat and a series sweep by the Tigers. The team ended its road trip with a disappointing 1-5 record. Venable and Counsell face the common challenge all managers encounter, heavily relying on multiple relievers daily. Since 2015, teams have used an average of over 4.11 pitchers per game, currently standing at 4.23.

Managers often face criticism for bullpen decisions when things go wrong, with less recognition when their choices succeed. Counsell, viewed as a bullpen expert during his tenure with the Milwaukee Brewers, now faces scrutiny when decisions don’t pan out. Venable, having managed a struggling White Sox team last year, now faces more scrutiny with the team’s improved performance.

Neither Chicago team’s bullpen has shown consistency during the 2026 season’s first three months. Cubs relievers rank 12th in the league with a 3.82 ERA, yet have downgraded to a 4.94 ERA since June, tallying five blown saves out of six opportunities. The absence of closer Daniel Palencia due to injuries has impacted the bullpen’s performance. The failures on Saturday were highlighted by Trent Thornton, Caleb Thielbar, and Jacob Webb, who collectively allowed eight runs in less than two innings.

Jed Hoyer, Cubs President, restructured the bullpen during the offseason, notably with Brad Keller departing to the Philadelphia Phillies. The Cubs placed emphasis on Palencia as a dominant closer, but injuries have limited his appearances. Thielbar has regressed, and free agent Phil Maton, with a two-year deal, has underperformed.

Injuries have plagued relievers such as Hunter Harvey, affecting their performances. Webb’s recent struggles have been so pronounced that he admitted to needing a new approach. Moving Ben Brown to a starting role due to injuries has left a gap in the bullpen, one yet to be filled.

After a postponed game on Sunday, the Cubs look ahead to a series against the Mets, followed by a confrontation with the Milwaukee Brewers.

The White Sox bullpen ranks 18th with a 4.26 ERA, albeit influenced by the use of openers, which has affected stats through the inclusion of bulk pitchers in bullpen figures. The bullpen performs better at home than on the road, with differing ERA figures (home: 3.48, road: 5.21).

White Sox GM Chris Getz reconstructed the bullpen after the 2025 season with key signings like Seranthony Domínguez and acquisitions like Jordan Hicks. Hicks has faced inconsistency and injury challenges but returned recently from the IL. Domínguez has shown control issues while accumulating 12 saves.

Grant Taylor, Bryan Hudson, Domínguez, and Sean Newcomb have been key supports for Venable’s bullpen strategies. Taylor is identified as a potential closer or starter, though locating optimal positions for him remains challenging. Newcomb’s recent performances have highlighted his capability as a possible starting pitcher.

Noah Schultz’s potential return from injury presents a solution to the fifth starter role, with Venable’s regular employment of openers contributing to varying results from the bullpen. Erick Fedde has adapted to the bulk pitcher role, performing well despite ongoing opener experimentation.

The reaction of players to Venable’s strategies has evolved positively. Fedde and Sean Burke have responded effectively to their adjusted roles, with Fedde handling bulk pitching duties numerous times.

Fedde’s recent strong outings reflect his ability to adapt, despite only holding a temporary contract.

Venable is committed to maximizing performance via openers, aiming to bring the best results from his roster. Such tactics will be closely monitored as the White Sox remain in contention.

Managing in Chicago, a city passionate about baseball, poses significant pressure, which Counsell acknowledges.