Cubs Name Daniel Palencia Opening Day Closer After Breakout 2025 Season

Cubs manager Craig Counsell officially named Daniel Palencia as the team's closer for Opening Day. Palencia, 26, is set to begin the season in the ninth-inning role after a breakout 2025 campaign where he recorded 22 saves with a 2.91 ERA and a 61:16 K:BB ratio over 52.2 innings. He returns to the role following Brad Keller's departure and a previous shoulder injury, showcasing electric stuff and proven high-leverage ability despite a slight risk of control regression.