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Chicago Cubs: Kyle Hendricks is the real ace of this pitching staff
By Brian Thomas
Chicago Cubs: Hendricks peaking just in time for October
‘The Professor’ has really shown his dominance over his last two starts. Against the Arizona Diamondbacks, Hendricks took a shutout into the ninth inning before surrendering a home run to A.J. Pollock. In that game, he pitched 8 2/3 innings, allowing three hits and a walk to go along with eight strikeouts.
Yesterday, he was just as sharp in his start against the Chicago White Sox. He lasted 7 2/3 innings while surrendering just one run on four hits while giving up zero walks. He also struck out five in the contest.
Hendricks is clearly trending in the right direction and again looks like one of the best pitchers in baseball. Last season, Hendricks was rewarded with his stellar play by being the Cubs’ Game 1 starter in the NLDS against the Washington Nationals. If you need a refresher, in that game he outdueled Stephen Strasburg and the Cubs won 3-0.
Next. It's not time to give up on Happ or his high ceiling. dark
If he continues to pitch the way he has of late there is no reason for him to not be the Cubs’ top starter again come October. He has been the Cubs’ ace and I would be more than comfortable with him starting Game One of any playoff series, whether that be in the NLDS or a winner-take-all play-in game.