PITTSBURGH — Daniel Palencia has not recorded a save for the Chicago Cubs since May 14, 2026, despite serving as the team’s closer for much of the 2026 season. As of June 3, 2026, he has totaled three saves this year.
Palencia pitched in 13 games during the 2026 season through early June, finishing nine of them. He compiled a 2.31 ERA with 12 strikeouts over 11.2 innings. His last save came in Atlanta on May 14, a game in which 13 of his 14 fastballs exceeded 100 mph.
The right-handed reliever missed approximately three weeks in late April and early May due to a strained oblique muscle. Upon his return, the Cubs entered a 10-game losing streak during which they held a lead for only two innings total, limiting opportunities for save situations. A classic save situation in baseball begins with a lead of three runs or fewer.
Palencia recorded 22 saves in the 2025 season, his first as the Cubs’ primary closer. Reflecting on his current role, Daniel Palencia said, "I would love to have more saves. I had the same mindset [of success]. I want to be an All-Star; I want to be a great closer. So, yes, it’s kind of frustrating for me to keep my mind clean."
He acknowledged the unpredictable nature of bullpen usage, adding, "Things happen. Sometimes you spend six days without throwing and then you may throw five days in a row." The Cubs have experienced both a double-digit winning streak and a double-digit losing streak during the 2026 season. Their recent victories have come by margins of five, five, and six runs, outcomes that typically do not produce save opportunities.