Jordan Wicks' imminent return gives Cubs a solution to Kyle Hendricks' problem

While the Chicago Cubs' sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates earlier this week re-ignited the team's hopes of potentially climbing back into the National League Wild Card race, one of the prevailing takeaways from the series is that the Cubs still have a Kyle Hendricks problem.

Hendricks struggled during his outing against the Pirates on Wednesday to the extent that he wasn't able to make it through, at least, the first two innings of the game. What is problematic about that start is that Hendricks' struggle came against a Pirates' offense that disappeared during the second half of the 2024 season.

With the Cubs clinging to contention in the Wild Card race but the schedule thickening up in upcoming weeks with series against the New York Yankees, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Phillies, the team may be forced to make a move they made earlier this season—removing Hendricks from the starting rotation.

Injuries to Ben Brown, Jordan Wicks, and Hayden Wesneski have necessitated Hendricks remaining in the rotation but Craig Counsell revealed to reporters on Friday before the team's victory over the Washington Nationals that there is a scenario where Wicks makes a start for the Major League team this weekend.

Jordan Wicks is the answer to Kyle Hendricks' question.

Wicks was scheduled to make a rehab assignment start with the Iowa Cubs on Friday night but was scratched given the chance that he may be activated off the IL this weekend.

Once Wicks does return, the decision is clear for the Cubs. Wicks should move back into the starting rotation and replace Hendricks. For as much respect as Hendricks deserves for the longevity of his career with the Cubs and the success he has had, the fact is that he is a liability on the team's pitching staff. If the Cubs are serious about remaining in contention during the final month of the regular season, Wicks needs to take Hendricks' spot in the rotation.