The Chicago Cubs' pitching staff has been hit with another setback, as hard-throwing reliever Daniel Palencia has been placed on the 15-day injured list with an oblique strain. The move, made official Saturday, forced the Cubs to play a man short in their 12-4 victory over the Mets on Friday.

To fill the void in the bullpen, the Cubs have called up right-hander Corbin Martin from Triple-A Iowa. Martin, who will wear No. 38, brings some major league experience, including two saves with the Baltimore Orioles last season. To make room for him on the 40-man roster, top pitching prospect Cade Horton was transferred to the 60-day injured list.

Palencia's absence immediately raises a critical question for manager Craig Counsell: who will handle the ninth inning? The Cubs may look internally, with Ben Brown emerging as a potential candidate. Brown has been impressive in relief, boasting a 2.38 ERA and 11 strikeouts over his last 11.1 innings, backed by a fastball that touches 98 mph.

Another option could be left-hander Caleb Thielbar, though his five career saves suggest a more situational role. With limited immediate help in the minors, the Cubs will need their current bullpen arms to step up. How Counsell navigates these late-inning decisions could be pivotal as the team looks to maintain its competitive edge.