As a passionate Chicago Cubs writer, it’s never easy to single out a player wearing the pinstripes. But it’s time to have an honest conversation about Ben Brown. While he came into the 2025 season with promise—a towering right-hander with strikeout stuff—his performance on the mound has been a significant liability, and it’s costing the Cubs valuable games during a season where every win matters.
Brown’s ERA has ballooned above league average, hovering in the high 5.00s, and his WHIP is just as concerning. He’s consistently putting runners on base, often via walks or hard-hit balls. It’s not just the numbers—it’s how he’s looked. Brown lacks command of his secondary pitches, especially when facing lefties. Hitters are sitting on his fastball, which, while occasionally touching the mid-90s, lacks the late movement to be effective when left over the plate.
His inability to pitch deep into games is also hurting the bullpen. Every time he starts, it’s an early call to the relievers, putting stress on an already overused group. This has a cascading effect—burning arms that are needed for competitive late-inning matchups in the days that follow. In high-leverage situations, Brown becomes a liability, and Craig Counsell can’t keep trotting him out there hoping something clicks.
What’s more frustrating is that the Cubs have internal options that could give them better innings. Younger arms in Triple-A Iowa have shown flashes of MLB readiness, and the team shouldn’t hesitate to give them a shot. Whether it’s to regain confidence or work on mechanics, Brown would be better served going back to the minors than continuing to flounder in the big leagues.
The harsh truth is that MLB is a results-driven league. Potential means little if it’s not translating to outs. If Brown doesn’t show immediate signs of improvement, the Cubs need to seriously consider designating him for assignment. It’s not personal—it’s business. And for a club that still harbors postseason aspirations, they can’t afford to carry dead weight on the pitching staff.
Ben Brown may have a future in this league, but right now, that future shouldn’t be in Chicago. It’s time to cut bait, regroup, and give someone else the opportunity to contribute.