Cubs reinstate RHP Ethan Roberts from IL while Hunter Harvey has setback in his recovery

By: The Associated Press Posted: 8:08 PM CDT Friday, May. 8, 2026

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) — The Chicago Cubs reinstated right-hander Ethan Roberts from the 15-day injured list Friday, the same day manager Craig Counsell said reliever Hunter Harvey had a setback in his recovery from right triceps inflammation that has sidelined him for a month.

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Roberts returned after being out since April 13 because of a cut on his right middle finger. To make room on the active roster, right-hander Gavin Hollowell was optioned to Triple-A Iowa.

Counsel said Hunter during a bullpen session Thursday experienced similar symptoms to what caused his initial injury. An MRI on the right-hander showed a stress reaction in the upper triceps and shoulder.

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell walks to the mound to make a pitching change during the sixth inning of a baseball game against the Cincinnati Reds, Wednesday, May 6, 2026, in Chicago. (AP Photo/Erin Hooley)

“So that’s a shutdown for the next four weeks,” said Counsell, adding that Hunter was headed to their Arizona facility. “We’re going to have him stop and restart.”

Caleb Thielbar, a left-handed reliever, threw a bullpen session Friday. He has been out since April 24 with a left hamstring strain.

Counsell said Thielbar’s bullpen went well and that the lefty will probably throw another “touch-and-feel” session Sunday. The next steps would be throwing live batting practice session next week and then a rehab stint.

“Then, we should decide and be in pretty good shape at that point,” Counsell said.