Ben Brown: A New Chapter with the Chicago Cubs
Wrigley Field recently sparked a fun guessing game, asking fans to identify Chicago Cubs players based on childhood drawings. The depictions of pitcher Ben Brown, known for his long blond hair in 2025, were particularly memorable. However, Brown has since opted for a noticeably shorter hairstyle.
“I let some kids down with my haircut,” Brown joked to the Chicago Tribune with a smile. His motivation? “I just wanted to look a little bit sharper,” he explained. “Getting up in the morning and having to do your hair is not something you want to do as a guy all of the time. This gives me an opportunity to get a haircut and clean it up. High and tight.”
The Price of a Cleaner Look
While appreciating the sharper appearance, Brown acknowledged the downside: “That’s the worst part of short hair — you have to get more haircuts,” he said. “I don’t like haircuts very much. I have a hard time sitting down for half an hour.”
Beyond the Haircut: A Focus on Performance
Despite the playful banter about disappointing young fans, Brown’s primary focus is on delivering strong performances for the Cubs and their supporters. Entering the 2026 season with 40 career appearances (23 starts), he began the year as a long reliever.
In his initial appearances, Brown threw 6 2/3 innings, allowing only two runs and striking out eight batters. He’s been diligently working on perfecting a sinker to complement his fastball, aiming to keep opposing hitters off balance.
Learning from the Past
Last year presented both successes and challenges for Brown. He showcased his potential with six shutout innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers (April 12), Milwaukee Brewers (May 2), and Cincinnati Reds (May 31), as well as a one-run performance over five innings against the White Sox (July 27). However, he also experienced setbacks, including a tough stretch against the St. Louis Cardinals and Kansas City Royals where he allowed 14 runs in nine innings.
A brief return to Triple-A Iowa helped him regain confidence, posting a remarkable 0.82 ERA in 11 innings.
A Shift in Mindset
Catcher Carson Kelly noticed a positive change in Brown’s approach this spring. “He had some ups and downs last year and coming into spring training, it just seemed like he had a change of mindset,” Kelly told the Chicago Tribune. “Watching him pitch and the way he has gone about it with his sinker — he’s going right after guys. There is a confidence in there, and kudos to him with mental training and physically being in a good spot. I’m very impressed and very happy for him.”
Embracing the Reliever Role
Brown is embracing his role as a reliable bullpen arm, acknowledging the adjustment from a starter’s consistent routine. “The biggest challenge is the work you are putting in between outings,” he said. “Sometimes getting better is taking a step back and maybe make a few less throws that day because you don’t know when you are going to throw (in a game). I am getting used to that and trusting that I will be ready.”
A Valuable Asset for the Cubs
Manager Craig Counsell recognizes the value of having experienced starters like Brown and Colin Rea in long-relief roles. “Early in the season, we thought it could be valuable,” Counsell said. “With unforeseen weather and being cautious with the starters, I think it’s worked out and will continue to be an asset the next couple of weeks.”
Counsell highlighted Brown’s ability to attack the strike zone and the growing effectiveness of his sinker. Brown himself is determined to be a dependable option in crucial situations. “The goal for me is to be available even in the hard games too,” he said. “I want to be in the close games and prove and earn my innings essentially so I can go out there and pitch in whatever role I can.”
