Cubs: We can expect another great season from Kyle Hendricks

In the 2020 shortened 60-game season, Hendricks posted a masterful performance in game one against Milwaukee. The right-hander allowed just three hits while striking out nine batters and walking none en route to a 3-0 shutout.

It was the beginning of another great season for Hendricks. Ten of his 12 outings were quality starts in 2020. The only blemishes came against the Reds at Great American Ballpark, where he allowed 11 earned runs combined in those two starts. Take away those two games against Cincinnati, and Hendricks boasts a 1.90 ERA against other opponents in ten starts.

Cubs: Kyle Hendricks could dominate again on Opening Day

It’ll be hard to replicate, but there’s a good chance we can expect more of the same against the rebuilding Pirates on April 1. In two starts against Pittsburgh last season, Hendricks allowed three earned runs and 13 hits while striking out nine and walking three in 13 1/3 innings pitched.

In his career, Hendricks holds a 3.02 ERA and 1.155 WHIP in 19 starts against the Pirates.

One advantage the right-hander will have on the mound this season is the level of competition he faces. The NL Central is regarded as the weakest division in the National League and should provide Hendricks the opportunity to add another consistent season to his resume.

The same goes for the rest of the Cubs starters, but it will be a different rotation than we’ve seen in years past.