The Chicago Cubs faced a setback as they placed Kyle Hendricks, their struggling right-handed pitcher, on the injured list due to lower back pain. This move came after Hendricks displayed a concerning 12.00 ERA over his first five starts of the season, which included giving up a league-high eight home runs, 37 hits, and 28 earned runs.
Cubs manager Craig Counsell revealed that Hendricks felt discomfort in his back during his warm-up before his recent start against the Marlins, where he lasted four innings and conceded four runs on six hits.
Addressing concerns about Hendricks’s future with the team, Counsell expressed confidence that the injury setback wouldn’t mark the end of Hendricks’s tenure with the Cubs.
Despite his struggles, Counsell emphasized Hendricks’s commitment to improving his performance once he recovers from the injury. In the meantime, the Cubs recalled Hayden Wesneski to fill Hendricks’s roster spot, with Counsell considering options for the rotation as the team enters a demanding stretch of games.
In addition to Hendricks, the Cubs also placed reliever Drew Smyly on the injured list due to right hip impingement, although he managed to pitch effectively despite the discomfort. This further complicates the team’s pitching situation as they navigate through a series of games without key players.
To bolster their lineup, the Cubs recalled left-handed first baseman Matt Mervis, who will support rookie Michael Busch. Counsell highlighted the importance of Mervis’s previous experience and adjusted expectations for his role this time around.
The Cubs made roster adjustments to maintain a balanced lineup, designating Garrett Cooper for assignment to make room for Matt Mervis. With corner infielder Patrick Wisdom recently activated from the injured list, the team aimed for a more equitable distribution of right-handed and left-handed hitters on the bench.
Counsell emphasized the strategic approach behind these roster moves as the Cubs prepared to face upcoming opponents, including the Houston Astros, Boston Red Sox, and New York Mets in the following weeks. Despite the challenges posed by injuries and performance issues, the Cubs remained focused on adapting their lineup and strategy to overcome obstacles and compete effectively in upcoming games.
