CHICAGO — Cubs Righty Kyle Hendricks will not be returning in 2022 because of a minor tear in his pitching shoulder, but he is optimistic that he will be fully fit for next season.
Hendricks stated Monday that they were running out time for a throwing schedule. Hendricks added, “We were running short of time to make some starts and throw some balls.” We initially thought it would take 4-6 weeks. I tried to get a ball after five week, but it felt very similar.”
Hendricks (32), has been out since early June while treating a shoulder issue that began in May. After inflammation subsided, an initial MRI showed tendinitis. But, tests later revealed a tear. Hendricks finished at 4-6 and had a 4.80 ERA in 16 runs before being stopped.
Hendricks stated, “With the long-term in mind, and looking at where we are at this season, it’s important to take a step back and determine what’s best for me.” I’ll be able tackle a full offseason throwing programme. That’s my current focus. It’s very unfortunate.
Hendricks stated that the injury was caused by a series of innings and not one pitch. He was the leading majors pitcher in ERA in 2016, and helped the Cubs win the World Series.
He said, “I want pitch as long as possible.” This is what I love. It is my favorite thing. It is my favorite thing about the world.
Hendricks will be reporting to the Cubs’ spring facility, Arizona, in the next few weeks. He wants to get back to throwing before the regular season ends. Hendricks still has one year on the four-year contract he signed with the Cubs in 2019.
As the club already stated that it will not be bringing an outfielder, the nine-year-old veteran could be the last Cub from the World Series-winning team. Jason Heyward Back, while catcher Willson Contreras is set to be an agent for free
Hendricks stated, “There have been many changes.” “A lot of turnover.”