Chicago Cubs News: Jordan Wicks appears to be headed to the Major League

While Chicago Cubs manager David Ross had no qualms with keeping Drew Smyly in the starting rotation, the team's front office may have a different idea.

Smyly returned to the Cubs' rotation on Wednesday after a brief stint in the bullpen and it was not good. Ross defended Smyly after the game and the veteran starting pitcher is currently among the Cubs' probable starting pitchers for the team against the Pittsburgh Pirates this weekend.

Though, it would appear that the Cubs' front office may have a different idea.

Pitching prospect Jordan Wicks was scheduled to start Wednesday's game for Triple-A Iowa but was scratched. Wicks being pulled from the start was not believed to be related to an injury and he was seen throwing a bullpen session during the game.

For much of the past week, there has been speculation that Wicks was ticketed for the Major League pitching staff. Wicks has posted a 3.82 ERA in 7 starts at the Triple-A level since being promoted from Double-A Tennessee but it was his most recent start that drew the attention of many.

Wicks struck out 7 batters in just under 5 innings of work and while he did allow 2 runs, there was a universal agreement that the Cubs' pitching prospect looked dominant.

This would be the appropriate time to express caution.

Wicks is not on the same plane in terms of prospect status such as Ben Brown or Cade Horton. Having said that, there is a fair chance that Wicks will be able to serve as an upgrade in the Cubs' starting rotation over Smyly. The fact of the matter is that Brown, had it not been for his current oblique injury, likely would have been the pitching prospect to get the promotion over Wicks. Regardless, the Cubs need a lever to pull for their rotation. and Wicks deserves this opportunity.

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