Cubs pitcher Jameson Taillon hits back after viral home run and fan criticisms

In an unforgettable moment during the Chicago Cubs’ recent live batting practice session, third baseman Alex Bregman left fans in awe with a towering home run that quickly became a viral sensation. The home run, which cleared the outfield fence with ease, was featured on the Marquee Sports Network, where it racked up over 110,000 views in no time.

While Bregman received ample praise for his impressive swing, it was Jameson Taillon, the Cubs’ right-handed pitcher, who found himself at the center of the conversation. Fans, as is often the case in the world of social media, quickly turned their attention from the home run hero to the pitcher who gave up the blast.

And it wasn’t just a few passing comments—the critiques flowed like a river, with many fans taking jabs at Taillon’s performance. The most frequent criticism? Taillon’s supposed “midseason form.” In the eyes of some, the home run wasn’t just a fleeting moment of batting success; it was a symbol of Taillon’s struggles. One Twitter user even went so far as to call him “washed.”

But Taillon wasn’t going to let the trolls have the last word. Responding with force and confidence, he fired back with a message that blended humor and undeniable statistics.

“That’s my sign to log off for the season 😂 felt great about my work today, and where I’m at on February 11th. P.S. twitter trolls- mid season form isn’t a diss when you give up 3 runs or less in 19 of 23 starts, and start meaningful playoff games 😉”
— Jameson Taillon on Twitter, February 11, 2026

Taillon’s response didn’t just serve as a comeback to the online critics—it also reminded everyone of his solid track record in recent seasons. 2025, for example, was a stellar year for the 34-year-old right-hander, who posted a respectable 3.68 ERA in 23 starts. Moreover, in 19 of those 23 starts, Taillon gave up three earned runs or fewer, a stat that only further solidifies his place as one of the Cubs’ most reliable arms.

But there’s more to Taillon’s 2025 campaign than meets the eye. If you cut out his season opener against the Arizona Diamondbacks, where he was tagged for six earned runs in just 4.1 innings, Taillon’s numbers were even more impressive. From that point on, he was locked in, showing his consistency and ability to bounce back after a tough start.

A Key Contributor in the Cubs’ Rotation

Though Bregman’s homer may have been the spotlight moment, Taillon’s value to the Cubs’ rotation is undeniable. He was an integral part of a pitching staff that finished in the top five of the National League in ERA and innings pitched, while also leading Major League Baseball in WHIP. In a year where ace Justin Steele went down early, Taillon, along with fellow starters Matthew Boyd, Shota Imanaga, and rookie Cade Horton, kept the rotation afloat. With key contributions from swingman Colin Rea, the Cubs’ rotation was one of the most stable in the league.

The Cubs’ Big Gamble: A 4-Year Deal with Taillon

In the offseason before the 2023 season, the Cubs made a bold move by signing Taillon to a four-year, $68 million contract. The deal was a significant investment, but it came after Taillon had turned in a solid performance with the New York Yankees in 2022, where he tied his career-high with 14 wins.

However, the weight of such a large contract can be a lot for a player to carry. In his first year with the Cubs, Taillon’s numbers were less than stellar—he posted a 4.84 ERA across 30 appearances. But, as many veteran players do, Taillon bounced back in 2024. He posted a 3.27 ERA over 165.1 innings—his best mark since 2018, when he was with the Pittsburgh Pirates.

However, as Taillon admitted in his Twitter response, his strikeout rate saw a decline, falling to a career-low 18.5%. Despite that, he showed an incredible ability to limit walks and keep the ball inside the park. This shift in approach demonstrated his adaptability, as he continued to find ways to get outs despite a drop in his K-rate.

2026: A Pivotal Year for Taillon’s Future

As 2026 rolls around, Taillon’s contract looms large. Barring a contract extension, this will be his final season in Chicago, and he’ll likely hit free agency at the end of the year. The importance of a strong, healthy 2026 campaign cannot be understated—it could well determine the next chapter of his career.

Injury Challenges in 2025: A Season to Forget?

Taillon’s 2025 season was anything but smooth sailing. A series of injuries limited him to just 129.2 innings on the year. He battled a calf strain in July and a groin strain in August, forcing him to miss some significant time. But even with those setbacks, Taillon finished strong. In his final six appearances of the year, he allowed just six earned runs over a total of 29.2 innings. It was a testament to his resilience, as he didn’t miss a beat after returning to the mound.

And when the Cubs reached the playoffs, Taillon continued to deliver. He made two playoff appearances, allowing just two earned runs across eight innings.

These efforts from Taillon were crucial in helping the Cubs stay competitive as they marched toward a postseason berth. While they fell short of the ultimate goal, Taillon’s performance during those high-pressure moments proved his value to the team, as well as his ability to thrive in meaningful games.

What to Expect in 2026: Taillon’s Role on the Cubs

As the Cubs approach the 2026 season, it’s expected that Taillon will return as the No. 5 starter in a rotation that should look largely unchanged. Lefties Imanaga and Boyd will continue to anchor the staff, with Cade Horton expected to be a key contributor for the full season. Edward Cabrera, acquired in a trade with the Miami Marlins, will provide an exciting addition to the rotation. Justin Steele, who’s recovering from elbow surgery, remains a question mark, as his timeline for return is still uncertain.

For Taillon, the upcoming season is a crucial opportunity—both for his career and his place with the Cubs. He’ll need to stay healthy and productive, proving he’s still a reliable arm after his series of injuries.

With a possible contract extension in the air, this could very well be the final chapter of his tenure in Chicago. If he delivers a strong performance and helps lead the Cubs back to the playoffs, he’ll have positioned himself for a lucrative free-agent deal that could extend his career for years to come.

As for the fans who mocked him after the viral home run? Well, Taillon will undoubtedly have more to say if the season unfolds the way he hopes. With a chip on his shoulder and a fire in his belly, the 2026 season may very well be a defining one for the Cubs’ veteran pitcher. Keep an eye on Jameson Taillon—the best may still be ahead.