ST PETERSBURG, FLORIDA - APRIL 06: Jameson Taillon #50 of the Chicago Cubs reacts during a game against the Tampa Bay Rays at Tropicana Field on April 06, 2026 in St Petersburg, Florida. (Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)

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The Chicago Cubs have plenty of questions to answer about their pitching staff as they look to take a run at the World Series next year.

After falling short of their postseason goals, Chicago’s front office has been clear that pitching depth is the major offseason priority as executives gather at the general manager meetings in Las Vegas this week.

One longtime Cubs starter, meanwhile, has offered an encouraging update about his own future shortly after the team cut ties with him despite its clear need for arms. Jameson Taillon, who was designated for assignment by the Cubs in July during the final season of his four-year, $68 million contract, is determined to continue his MLB career despite another significant elbow injury.

“Hey everyone, I’m back!” Taillon posted on X. “5 weeks out from flexor and internal brace surgery. I’m 34 years old and on my 3rd elbow surgery, but I truly believe I have my best years ahead.”

Chicago Cubs Veteran Jameson Taillon Declares Return After Major Surgery

Taillon’s announcement comes after an injury-plagued season that saw him move from Chicago to the Toronto Blue Jays at the trade deadline. The Cubs designated him for assignment on July 27 before trading him to Toronto on August 2.

The veteran right-hander struggled during his final season in Chicago, recording a 5.92 ERA across 76 innings and 15 starts. His performance represented a difficult ending to a Cubs tenure that had included three previous seasons of more consistent production.

Taillon’s elbow problems continued after the trade, ultimately leading to the flexor procedure and internal brace surgery.

“The surgery seems likely to cost Taillon most or all of the 2027 season,” Anthony Franco wrote for MLB Trade Rumors. “(It’s highly likely he’d miss the entire year if there’s a ligament repair.) Taillon stressed that he’s going this route because he intends to get fully healthy and continue his career. The former second overall pick turns 35 in November and would be eyeing a comeback for his age-36 campaign if he’s out until 2028.”

Chicago Cubs Moving Forward Without Jameson Taillon

Taillon’s determination to return represents another chapter in a career that has already included multiple significant elbow operations. He previously underwent Tommy John surgery in 2014 and a second procedure in 2019.

Although his departure from Chicago was an unfortunate conclusion to his $68 million contract, the right-hander now appears focused on establishing another opportunity in the majors rather than considering retirement.

The Cubs, meanwhile, will have to address their pitching needs without counting on a reunion with their former veteran. With Taillon facing an extended rehabilitation process, his next opportunity to pitch in the majors is likely to come with an entirely different organization, if at all.