Cubs reveal early Liam Hendriks plan that preaches patience over urgency

There was a sense of irony that on the same day that the Chicago Cubs signed former All-Star closer Liam Hendriks to a minor-league deal, Phil Maton continued the struggles that have plagued him since the start of the season. The Cubs need answers for their bullpen, and while there's a chance Hendriks is one, that time isn't now.

Speaking with reporters after the signing was confirmed, Craig Counsell revealed that for now, the Cubs are simply viewing Hendriks as added depth. Though Counsell did acknowledge Hendriks' past success and the hope that he can figure things out after struggling with the Boston Red Sox last season.

Counsell revealed that Hendriks will report to the Cubs' spring training complex in Arizona as he continues to ramp up for game action. While Hendriks wasn't with a team at the start of the regular season, he spent Spring Training with the Minnesota Twins. He gave up three runs on nine hits and five walks in seven innings of work. Of the 35 hitters he faced during spring training, Hendriks only struck out five.

Liam Hendriks won't be an immediate answer...for now

Once Hendriks completes his ramp-up period, the Cubs are expected to assign him to Triple-A Iowa. From there, the veteran relief pitcher would likely need a string of appearances before the Cubs consider selecting his contract. If all goes well, it feels like the end of June would be the time to expect Hendriks with the big-league club.

If Hendriks does get to the point where he is an effective option for Counsell in the bullpen, it would be found money for the Cubs. And, it would come at an important time. Maton, at the moment, shouldn't be considered a high-leverage option, and Hunter Harvey has yet to resume his throwing program.

It goes without saying that Jed Hoyer will be in search of relief pitching ahead of the deadline. Where that becomes problematic is the fact that there is a dire need for the Cubs in their starting rotation. The cost of starting pitching at the deadline is going to be high. If Hendriks can occupy a role in the bullpen, that will leave Hoyer with more prospect capital to address the need in the rotation.

Wishful thinking at the moment, considering it's been several years since Hendriks was an effective option in a bullpen.

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