Follow our new Twitter account for real-time updates and in-depth analysis of all things Chicago Cubs.
Kyle Hendricks had his shortest start since 2014 last night, as his first-inning and home run troubles surfaced once again. The Cubs lost to the Dodgers 7-5, their comeback falling short after Hendricks gave up six earned runs in 2.2 innings.
Hendricks got hit hard, allowing eight hits that included two home runs. To add insult to injury the first home run off the Cubs’ pitcher just happened to bounce back over the wall and hit Albert Almora Jr. right on the head.
It was just that kind of night for the Cubs, who dropped to 1-6 on their road trip.
Adding insult to injury. 😂#MomentOfFlavor pic.twitter.com/kuXaTuBnOc
— MLB (@MLB) June 28, 2018
Follow our new Twitter account for real-time updates and in-depth analysis of all things Chicago Cubs.
Almora later left the game because of a tight quad.
As for Hendricks, he made no excuses following the loss. He’s simply bad right now and it all goes back to being unable to have consistent mechanics.
#Cubs Hendricks: "I'm just searching right now. It's just bad. Mechanics, I'm trying to focus mentally and going pitch to pitch and I'm doing that but something's just off. I'm searching now."
— Carrie Muskat (@CarrieMuskat) June 28, 2018
Hendricks: "I'm healthy. Just terrible right now."
— Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiCubs) June 28, 2018
Hendricks has now given up 16 home runs in 16 starts this season. He’s also walked 29 batters compared to only 40 walks all of last year.
Yes, it’s concerning that Hendricks has been struggling as of late, but just like last year we’ve seen him turn things in the right direction quickly. It’s more frustrating at the moment, considering the Cubs haven’t had many deep outings from their starters, Yu Darvish has been out for a month and the bullpen has been without its two best relievers for a few weeks too.
However, this is another reminder that it’s no time to panic. Brandon Morrow is back from the DL, Carl Edwards Jr. is in Iowa for his rehab assignment and Darvish could be back as soon as this weekend. Plus, it’s really just been a rough month of June for Hendricks. Through his first 11 starts this season, Hendricks had a 3.19 ERA.
The track record is there for Hendricks. It’s almost July, but there are still three months left in the season. Plenty of time to get Hendricks and the rest of the team back on track.
Compared to last year, the Cubs aren’t in a bad position at all. They’re at 43 wins already. In 2017, the Cubs were 43-45 at the all-star break.
