Trending Now - Cubs' Hodge and Wicks Placed on Injured List to Start Season

WHO:

Chicago Cubs

Porter Hodge, relief pitcher for the Cubs

Jordan Wicks, relief pitcher for the Cubs

Craig Counsell, Cubs manager

WHAT:

Porter Hodge will begin the season on the injured list due to a right flexor strain.

Jordan Wicks will also start the season on the injured list due to nerve irritation.

Hodge logged 29 pitches in two-thirds of an inning during a Cactus League appearance against the Guardians on February 27th, allowing five runs, two walks, and two strikeouts.

Hodge had a 6.27 ERA in 26 games during the 2025 season.

Hodge will be shut down from throwing for two weeks before being re-evaluated.

Wicks has been out since late February and is expected to return to the mound later in March 2026.

WHERE:

Mesa, Arizona (location of Cubs Spring Training)

WHEN:

Hodge's injury was revealed on March 8th, 2026.

Hodge's last spring outing was on February 27th, 2026.

Hodge will be re-evaluated in two weeks from March 8th, 2026.

Wicks has been out since late February 2026.

WHY:

Hodge's injury is described as a setback that will put him behind in his recovery and preparation for the season.

Wicks's injury is due to nerve irritation, which has prevented him from being ready for Opening Day.

HOW:

Imaging on Hodge's elbow revealed the flexor strain after his last spring outing.

(UPDATED March 8, 2026 20:59 UTC)

In a tough start to the season, the Chicago Cubs announced today that relief pitcher Porter Hodge will begin on the injured list due to a right flexor strain, while fellow relief pitcher Jordan Wicks will also miss time because of nerve irritation. Hodge, who struggled in his last outing on February 27th, logged 29 pitches and allowed five runs, and he will be shut down from throwing for two weeks before a re-evaluation. Wicks, who has been sidelined since late February, is expected to return to the mound later this month as the Cubs continue their Spring Training in Mesa, Arizona.