The Cubs have announced several changes to their roster, as reported by Sahadev Sharma of The Athletic. Right-handed pitcher Kyle Hendricks and left-handed pitcher Drew Smyly have both been placed on the 15-day injured list, with Hendricks dealing with a lower back problem and Smyly sidelined due to a hip impingement. In corresponding moves, right-hander Hayden Wesneski and left-hander Luke Little have been called up. Additionally, Garrett Cooper has been designated for assignment, and Matt Mervis has been recalled, as previously reported.
Hendricks, 34, has struggled significantly this season. MLBTR’s Anthony Franco recently analyzed his performance before his most recent start, during which Hendricks logged 21 innings over five starts, allowing 28 earned runs for a staggering earned run average of 12.00. His strikeout rate this year is the lowest it’s been since his 2014 debut, possibly influenced by some bad luck, evident in his .392 batting average on balls in play. He’s also struggling with leaving runners stranded and a high rate of fly balls turning into home runs. However, his 7.75 FIP and 4.44 SIERA metrics suggest that his performance might not be as dire as it seems, though they offer different perspectives on his pitching.
Hendricks experienced discomfort in his back before his Sunday start, and despite continuing to pitch, the severity of the issue necessitates at least a couple of weeks on the sidelines.
With both Hendricks and Smyly out, the Cubs must rearrange their pitching rotation. Wesneski, who has experience in a swing role, could potentially make some starts, along with other options such as Ben Brown, who has been pitching multi-inning stints this season. Additionally, the recent signing of veteran Julio Teheran provides another non-roster option. Cooper’s designation for assignment leaves an opening on the 40-man roster for potential adjustments.
