Chicago Cubs’ Jason Hammel has no intentions of missing next start

It was not the ideal way to start a game. Jason Hammel knocked down a line drive from Yankees lead-off man Brett Gardner with his pitching hand, and it hurt just as much as it looked like.

"“When it hit me, I thought my hand exploded,” Hammel said Wednesday. h/t Carrie Muskat, MLB.com"

The Cubs training staff came out immediately, and after Hammel’s first test pitch went over the catcher’s head, it didn’t look good for him to remain in the game. But the next few pitches were on the mark, and Hammel remained in the game. He would end up going 5 2/3 innings and getting the win in the 6-1 victory over the Yankees.

Manager Rick Renteria admitted that seeing Hammel get hit with the line-drive was “scary”, but was encouraged after talking to him on Wednesday.

X-rays taken on Tuesday revealed no breaks, only a deep bone bruise, but Hammel plans on making his next start.

"“In my game plan, I’m going to make that start [Sunday],” he said. “If I can go after getting hit, I can start.” said Hammel."

Hammel has been solid, even though last night’s game didn’t qualify as “quality” start. The Cubs are hoping the swelling subsides and he’s able to take the ball Sunday against the Padres in San Diego.