Chicago Cubs: Kyle Hendricks’ postseason starts in review

Hendricks will be a key piece for the remainder of the postseason

With the NLCS starting up on Saturday, it is highly unlikely that Hendricks starts Game 1. What seems more probable is a Game 3 start for Hendricks at Wrigley Field.

No matter when Hendricks pitches in the series, he will be an important piece in the Cubs’ postseason puzzle. With his success in October over the last few seasons, the Cubs will lean on him whenever they can.

Prior to his start on Thursday, Hendricks had a 1.98 career postseason ERA in 41 innings pitched. This means that Joe Maddon will likely give the ball to Hendricks whenever he is needed the most, whether that be out of the bullpen in later games, or as a starter on short rest.

Assuming the Cubs give Hendricks five days between starts, he will start Game 3 and Game 7 if the series goes that far.

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Whenever Hendricks is called upon to pitch, one thing will be certain. The youngster will show up ready to dominate and that is a bad sign for opposing hitters.