Cubs executive Jed Hoyer blames himself for one aspect of team’s early exit

Chicago Cubs president of baseball operations Jed Hoyer took responsibility for assembling a poor bullpen following the team's National League wild-card round loss to the San Diego Padres. Hoyer acknowledged on Friday, October 2, that the relief pitchers he acquired ahead of the 2026 season failed to perform effectively compared to the previous year.

The Cubs struggled with injuries and underperformance, as relievers Phil Maton, Colin Rea, Hunter Harvey, Caleb Thielbar, and Jacob Webb combined for -0.1 WAR, while Shelby Miller missed the entire season due to Tommy John surgery. Closer Daniel Palencia was also limited to 32 appearances with an elbow injury, contributing to Chicago converting just 56 percent of its save opportunities.