Former Chicago Cubs Closer Heading for Tommy John Surgery

After a problematic first half of the season, he hasn't pitched in nearly three months, now it appears that it could be 2026 before we see Chicago Cubs reliever Adbert Alzolay on the mound again.

Adbert Alzolay is set to undergo Tommy John surgery, per Craig Counsell.
— Maddie Lee (@maddie_m_lee) August 7, 2024

The Cubs closer from 2023 will officially be undergoing Tommy John surgery, said manager Craig Counsell.

With a 2.67 ERA and a terrific 67:13 strikeout-to-walk ratio last season, Alzolay posted 22 saves as the Cubs closer as he took over the role for good at midseason.

But a forearm strain near the end of the year began his arm troubles, and they continued soon into the 2024 season. He posted a 4.67 ERA over the first six weeks, and then went on the IL again with a forearm strain, that was later announced as a flexor strain.

It's a tough break for the 29-year-old, who will be on the wrong side of 30 by the time he can return, and there's no telling if he'll ever recapture the magic he'd discovered in 2023.

The Cubs are currently going with Hector Neris as the closer.