Kyle Hendricks is another quality prospect the Cubs have on their team. (David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports)
CINCINNATI — When Jeff Samardzija and Jason Hammel were traded to Oakland, it created a buzz among the Chicago Cubs’ minor-league pitchers.
Right-hander Kyle Hendricks, who arrived at Great American Ball Park on Wednesday, the day before his scheduled major league debut, said his teammates at Triple-A Iowa were energized by the news.
“As players, we talked about who’s going to go up, what’s going to happen,” he said. “It says something about the guys we have down there that any of them could come up and fill the spot. I hope they’re giving me a real opportunity. That’s what you want.”
Hendricks went 10-5 with a 3.59 ERA and 97 strikeouts in 102 2/3 innings. His success this season has been bolstered by the improvement in his four-seam fastball, which has become a go-to pitch.
“I usually throw mostly two-seam,” he said. “I’ve been using my four-seam with more velocity to both sides of the plate. It’s been a real key for me.”
Hendricks said he’ll have 15 friends and family members in attendance Thursday for his first start.
Chicago’s youth movement is well under way, with No. 7 prospect Arismendy Alcantara making his debut and right-hander Dallas Beeler making his second start Wednesday.
“We all know that those young guys are there,” manager Rich Renteria said. “Any time there (are) the beginnings of change it sends a ripple effect throughout the minor league system. For them, it opens up opportunities. They still have to go out and perform.”
Fantasy Update: Keep an eye on Hendricks. He could be a useful second-half addition to your team considering the Cubs are playing a lot better than many thought.
