Full Breakdown
Chicago Cubs Pitchers Porter Hodge and Jordan Wicks Start Season on Injured List
3/9/2026, 1:27:34 PM
Injury Overview
The Chicago Cubs will begin the 2026 MLB season without relief pitchers Porter Hodge and Jordan Wicks, both of whom have been placed on the injured list due to arm injuries. Hodge, a 25-year-old right-hander, is dealing with a right flexor tendon strain, while Wicks, a 26-year-old left-hander, is sidelined with radial nerve irritation in his left arm. Manager Craig Counsell confirmed that Hodge will be shut down from throwing for at least two weeks, and Wicks is not expected to resume pitching until mid-to-late March.
Impact on the Team
Hodge's injury is particularly concerning as he was anticipated to play a significant role in the Cubs' bullpen after a promising rookie season in 2024, where he posted a 1.88 ERA. However, his performance declined in 2025, resulting in a 6.27 ERA due to various injuries, including shoulder and oblique issues. His struggles continued in spring training, where he allowed seven earned runs and issued seven walks in just two innings across three appearances. Counsell described Hodge's situation as "a setback" that will delay his contributions to the team.
Wicks, who has fluctuated between the major and minor leagues, was expected to provide depth in the pitching staff. He has a career ERA of 5.21 over 26 games with the Cubs. His current injury has kept him from pitching since late February, and he is projected to throw off a mound later this month.
Official Statements & Responses
Counsell remarked on the unfortunate timing of the injuries, stating, "We weren't expecting those two guys to get hurt. On both ends, we're fortunate they're not long-term injuries, so that's a good thing." He acknowledged the physical demands of the sport, noting, "These are hard, physical jobs that are going to cause injuries, so they’re going to happen."
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the optimism regarding the non-long-term nature of the injuries, there are concerns among fans and analysts about the depth of the Cubs' bullpen. With Hodge and Wicks sidelined, the team will need to rely on other pitchers to step up, raising questions about the overall effectiveness of the bullpen early in the season.
What's Next
Hodge will be reevaluated in two weeks to assess his recovery from the flexor strain, while Wicks is expected to return to the mound later in March. The Cubs will need to navigate the early part of the season without these key contributors, potentially impacting their performance as they aim to improve upon a disappointing 2025 season.
Verbatim Quotes
“It’s a setback and it’s going to put him certainly behind and take him a while to get back up to be healthy and ready to contribute,” — Craig Counsell, Cubs Manager
“On both ends, we're fortunate they're not long-term injuries, so that's a good thing.” — Craig Counsell, Cubs Manager
