Riley

Martin

Martin hit the shelf over the weekend with elbow inflammation with subsequent imaging revealing a flexor strain. It sounds like he isn’t dealing with any UCL damage, but he’s still facing a lengthy absence and likely won’t be an option for Chicago’s relief mix until at least July.

Martin becomes the latest member of the Cubs’ bullpen to land on the injured list. No word yet on the severity of the injury or how long he’ll be shelved for. Charlie Barnes was recalled from Triple-A Iowa to take his spot.

It’s likely an opener appearance for Martin with Colin Rea to follow in a bulk relief role. The 28-year-old lefty has reeled off 3 1/3 consecutive scoreless frames over three relief appearances since being called up from Triple-A Iowa last week.

The 28-year-old southpaw will add a fresh arm to the Cubs’ bullpen, taking the place of the injured Cade Horton (forearm) on their active roster. Martin was terrific out of the bullpen at Tripel-A Iowa in 2025, posting a 2.69 ERA, 1.19 WHIP and an 80/35 K/BB ratio over 62 2/3 innings. If he performs like that, he’ll have a permanent home in the Cubs’ bullpen.

This is likely a corresponding move with Cade Horton (forearm) assuredly heading to the injured list. Martin will have a chance to make his MLB debut as a 28-year-old as a member of the Chicago bullpen.

As is often the case with the first batch of spring cuts, there were no real surprises among this group. Triantos, 23, showed well during Cactus League play, hitting .280 (7-for-25) with four RBI, three stolen bases and a 4/6 K/BB ratio in 31 plate appearances. He could debut with the Cubs in a utility role at some point during the 2026 season.

Triantos represents the highest-profile prospect the Cubs needed to guard from next month’s Rule 5 Draft. The 22-year-old infielder’s stock has taken a hit over the past year, but he still projects as a viable utility infielder at the highest level.