The Chicago Cubs placed closer Daniel Palencia on the 15-day IL with right elbow inflammation on June 16. Gavin Hollowell recalled from Triple-A Iowa.

The Chicago Cubs placed right-handed reliever and closer Daniel Palencia on the 15-day injured list with right elbow inflammation on Tuesday, June 16.

In a corresponding move, the team recalled right-hander Gavin Hollowell from Triple-A Iowa.

Details on the Injury

Palencia had been showing signs of discomfort recently, including a noticeable dip in velocity. Manager Craig Counsell and the training staff opted to shut him down after further evaluation. The inflammation is in his right (throwing) elbow, and the Cubs will take a cautious approach with the 25-year-old relief pitcher.

This marks another setback for the Cubs’ bullpen and pitching staff as a whole, which has already dealt with multiple key injuries this season.

Daniel Palencia’s 2026 Season So Far

Palencia began the year as one of the Cubs’ top high-leverage arms and had taken over closing duties at times. He posted strong numbers early but had been less dominant in recent outings before the injury. He currently sports a 2.70 ERA with three saves over 16.2 innings of work for Chicago this season.