Cade Horton exited with a finger blister in the Cubs' third against Milwaukee, going 2 2/3 innings, allowing four hits, one walk and a hit-by-pitch while striking out three. Brice Turang answered with a solo homer in the third to put the Brewers on top 1-0 as Horton departed.

Drew Pomeranz came on with two outs and the bases loaded, escaping the jam by retiring Blake Perkins and holding Milwaukee’s lead. Horton entered Monday's doubleheader with a 7-3 record and a 3.07 ERA, and the Cubs will monitor the blister ahead of the nightcap at 7:05 p.m. CT.

Fantasy takeaway: health matters for Horton pitchers, and his early exit reshapes Cubs bullpen plans in a rare day-night pairing. Turang’s homer highlights Milwaukee’s opportunistic approach, while Pomeranz’s out of the jam appearance is a small boost for Chicago’s relief usage in upcoming starts.

The Chicago Cubs face a critical juncture as they approach the All-Star break, having lost starter Jameson Taillon to a calf strain. Manager Craig Counsell's strategic adjustments are essential, particularly after a recent 8-6 defeat to the St. Louis Cardinals. With Taillon's absence expected to last around a month, Counsell is contemplating his rotation options ahead of the upcoming series against the New York Yankees.

Despite Chris Flexen's struggles in the last outing, he remains a candidate to step in for Taillon, potentially extending his innings. The Cubs' pitching depth is being tested, particularly with Justin Steele sidelined for the season. Meanwhile, president Jed Hoyer is exploring trade options but may opt for patience with the July 31 deadline approaching.

Jacob deGrom is showcasing a return to form reminiscent of his Cy Young-winning days, highlighting an impressive 2.33 ERA over 10 starts this season with the Texas Rangers. After extensive injury struggles, deGrom's recent performance, including back-to-back seven-inning outings, has reignited discussions about his Hall of Fame potential. Meanwhile, Drew Pomeranz, once contemplating retirement, has made a remarkable comeback with the Chicago Cubs, throwing 11 ⅓ shutout innings and solidifying his role in the bullpen.

Patrick Corbin's resurgence with the Rangers has also been noteworthy, demonstrating that veteran pitchers can still thrive despite previous struggles. These narratives exemplify the beauty of baseball comebacks, showcasing resilience and the relentless pursuit of success against all odds.

The Chicago Cubs have made significant roster changes ahead of their crucial matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers, acquiring infielder Nicky Lopez on a one-year deal and calling up reliever Drew Pomeranz. Pomeranz, who has yet to pitch in the majors since 2021 due to injuries, watched the Cubs' thrilling 11-10 victory over the Dodgers from the stands. Gage Workman was designated for assignment, and Gavin Hollowell was optioned to Triple-A Iowa. With the Cubs leading the NL Central, the addition of Pomeranz aims to bolster a struggling bullpen that currently has a 5.34 ERA.

In a related concern, designated hitter Seiya Suzuki has been scratched from the lineup due to wrist soreness, replaced by Justin Turner. Lopez, who had a brief stint with the Angels, is looking to find his footing after opting out of his minor league contract. Pomeranz's history with manager Craig Counsell, along with his previous success with the Brewers, adds a layer of hope for Cubs fans.