Chicago Cubs' Adbert Alzolay Set for Tommy John Surgery: What This Means for the Team?

In a major setback for the Chicago Cubs, right-hander Adbert Alzolay is scheduled to undergo Tommy John surgery, according to manager Craig Counsell. Maddie Lee of the Chicago Sun-Times shared the news on social media. Last week, it was revealed that Alzolay needed surgery, but the specifics of the procedure were unclear until now. This surgery will keep him out for the rest of the season and may sideline him for the entire 2025 season as well.

Impact on Alzolay and the Cubs

This is a significant blow for both Alzolay and the Cubs. The right-handed pitcher appeared to hit his stride last season after transitioning from a starting role to a full-time relief pitcher. Over 58 appearances, Alzolay pitched 64 innings with a stellar 2.67 earned run average (ERA). He struck out 26.5% of the batters he faced, maintained a walk rate of just 5.1%, and kept the ball on the ground 42.2% of the time. Alzolay even took on the closer’s role, earning 22 saves.

However, Alzolay missed approximately two weeks in September due to a right forearm strain, which now seems to have been a precursor to his current issues. He made 18 appearances to start this season but struggled significantly, with a reduced strikeout rate of 17.3% and an ERA of 4.67. The Cubs placed him on the injured list on May 13, initially citing a right forearm strain. The next day, imaging revealed a right flexor strain, as reported by Lee.

Future Implications

There was some optimism regarding his return when he began a rehab assignment in July. However, after only three appearances, it was confirmed that Alzolay would need surgery. Now facing Tommy John surgery, Alzolay’s entire 2025 season is in jeopardy. Recovery from Tommy John surgery typically takes 14 months or longer, meaning he might not return to official game action until 2026. At 29 years old, Alzolay will turn 31 in March 2026.

Contract and Team Dynamics

Alzolay, who reached arbitration for the first time this year with a salary of $2.11 million, might be retained by the Cubs for 2025. However, given his injury and the uncertainty surrounding his recovery, the Cubs might only benefit from retaining his rights for the 2026 season, just before he hits free agency. Teams in this situation sometimes negotiate extensions to cover the rehab period and the pitcher’s return, so the Cubs might discuss such an arrangement with Alzolay’s representatives this winter.

Cubs' Bullpen Outlook

In the meantime, the Cubs’ bullpen is likely to remain in flux for the rest of this year and into next season. Héctor Neris is currently handling closing duties but is not guaranteed to return in 2025. His one-year deal includes a $9 million club option that converts to a player option if he makes 60 appearances this season; he’s currently at 42. Mark Leiter Jr., who led the team in holds, was traded to the Yankees before the deadline. Yency Almonte and Porter Hodge, tied for second in holds, are also dealing with injuries, with Almonte out for the year due to shoulder surgery. Tyson Miller and Drew Smyly are next on the list, but Smyly is expected to enter free agency as his deal includes a mutual option for 2025 that is rarely picked up by both parties.

Conclusion

The Cubs face a challenging road ahead with Alzolay’s impending Tommy John surgery and the uncertainties in their bullpen. As they navigate these issues, fans and analysts will closely watch how the team adapts and whether they can maintain competitive performance.