Key Takeaways:
– Kyle Hendricks, a long-serving Cubs veteran, has been moved from the starting lineup to the bullpen.
– Hendricks has struggled with a weak performance this season, going 0-4 and conceding a league-high 36 earned runs.
– Despite the disappointing stats, manager Craig Counsell believes Hendricks’ demotion is only temporary.
– The Cubs’ starting line-up has suffered several injuries, affecting their performance significantly.
– However, the emergence of pitchers like Shota Imanaga and Javier Assad has been a positive aspect of the season.
Cubs Veteran Kyle Hendrick Moved to Bullpen
In an unforeseen turn of events for the Chicago Cubs, revered veteran Kyle Hendricks will no longer be in the starting line-up. This change was officially announced by manager Craig Counsell on Tuesday. The decision followed Hendricks’ lackluster performance in the current season of Major League Baseball (MLB).
Hendricks’ Performance Takes a Dip
At age 34, Hendricks’ professional baseball career has been decorated with a string of impressive performances, earning him a coveted place in Cubs’ history. However, this season has seen a dramatic dip in form for the veteran pitcher, casting a shadow over his future as a starter. Despite his established reputation, Hendricks has recorded a dismal 0-4 this season, with an inflated Earned Run Average (ERA) of 10.57, a WHIP of 1.989, and concedes a league-leading 36 earned runs.
In addition, Hendricks continues a regrettable tradition for 2024 Cubs pitchers; he’s nursing a stubborn back injury. The statistics for batters facing Hendricks are particularly telling, with a slash line of .362/.411/.638, adding to the mounting concerns about his ability to start games.
Counsell addresses the demotion.
While confirming Hendricks’ change of role, manager Craig Counsell expressed hope that the move would be temporary. Speaking to the Chicago Tribune, Counsell acknowledged the precarious state of their pitching arm but is committed to adapting as the situation dictates.
Devastating Injuries to the Cubs
The Cubs have been hit hard with injuries throughout the season, particularly within their starting rotation. Key players such as Justin Steele and Jordan Wicks have faced health issues, disrupting their performance. Steele started the season hampered by a hamstring injury, and though he showed promise in his initial return, has struggled in his recent games.
However, the Cubs have found some solace in the rise of pitchers like Shota Imanaga and Javier Assad, who have starred in their roles amidst the adversity. Imanaga boasts a 5-0 record with a stellar ERA of 0.84, while Assad’s 4-0 scoreline and 1.70 ERA offer a glimpse of hope in an otherwise gloomy narrative.
Reliving Hendricks’ Better Days
Hendricks enjoyed a solid performance in 2023 after bouncing back from disappointing shows in 2021 and 2022. His impressive show led the Cubs to extend his contract, investing $16.5 million in his potential. Unfortunately, the gamble seems to have backfired, with this season’s performance falling short of expectations.
Despite his current struggles, Cubs team president Jed Hoyer pays tribute to Hendricks’ contributions to the team, describing him as an “amazing member” of their pitching staff and organization. Given his illustrious past, Hoyer believes nothing that happens henceforth should tarnish Hendricks’ legacy.
Closing thoughts
It’s evident that Hendricks and the Cubs as a whole are facing challenging times. Fans will be hoping that this shake-up will restore some order and kickstart a much-needed resurgence in form.