The Chicago Cubs have activated veteran right-hander Kyle Hendricks from the injured list to start in Sunday’s road game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Hendricks, who last pitched on April 21 before being sidelined with a lower back injury, is set to return to the rotation following a challenging start to the season.
In a corresponding roster move, right-hander Jose Cuas has been optioned to Triple-A Iowa. Cuas, 29, struggled with a 9.00 ERA in six relief appearances for the Cubs this season. Over his career, which spans parts of three seasons with the Kansas City Royals and Cubs, Cuas has posted a 7-4 record with a 4.22 ERA in 125 appearances, including two starts.
Hendricks, 34, faced difficulties at the beginning of the season, recording an 0-3 record with a 12.00 ERA in five starts covering 21 innings. With Hendricks rejoining the rotation, he will take the place of right-hander Jameson Taillon, who has been dealing with a sore back and was pushed back to possibly start on Tuesday.
The Cubs look to benefit from Hendricks’ return as they seek to secure a victory against the Pirates and gain momentum in the competitive National League Central division. Hendricks’ experience and pitching prowess will be key assets for the Cubs as they navigate the challenges of the regular season.
