Former polarizing Cubs pitcher ignites comeback journey after third elbow surgery

While the Chicago Cubs could pursue a reunion with multiple free-agent pitchers who were a part of their rotation last season, Jameson Taillon likely isn't a part of that group. The Cubs traded Taillon to the Toronto Blue Jays ahead of the deadline, and the end to his tenure in Chicago came after he spent most of the season being plagued by the home-run ball.

Through 15 starts with Cubs to open the 2026 season, Taillon posted an ERA of 5.92, giving up 25 home runs along the way. Despite the Cubs having a constant need for pitching throughout the year, Taillon's struggles eventually reached the point where Craig Counsell and the rest of the team's coaching staff ran out of options for what to…