MLB Rumors: Cardinals solution, Braves trade outlook, Cubs move

MLB Rumors: Cubs could add to rotation

The Chicago Cubs defeated the San Diego Padres on Tuesday night, despite some unique trolling from Fernando Tatis Jr. Chicago is on a roll to start the season, and they’re only going to get better from here.

Caleb Killian could very well join the starting rotation whenever called upon, though it should be noted that he struggled in his previous MLB outing back in 2022, as noted by Cubbies Crib:

“Kilian made his Major League debut with the Cubs in 2022 and struggled in three starts. Kilian was tagged for 15 runs (13 earned) in 11.1 innings pitched at the Major League level last season in June and his return to Triple-A Iowa saw him struggled with command issues.”

His 2023 season isn’t off to the best start, either, leaving some to wonder if Chicago may have a better option stashed at a different level.

Kyle Hendricks is expected to return soon, as well. The right-handed pitcher is slowly working his way back from a capsular tear in his throwing shoulder that he suffered back in August. He’s been in a throwing program for nearly six weeks, but is set to make some rehab starts soon, per MLB Trade Rumors:

"“The club has understandably taken a cautious approach to building him up. Hendricks will require multiple rehab starts, with Levine suggesting the hope is he can return to the Wrigley Field mound in the middle of May. The 33-year-old worked to a career-worst 4.80 ERA over 84 1/3 innings last season. He’s headed into the final guaranteed year of his contract, with the Cubs deciding on a net $14.5MM decision for 2024 ($16MM option, $1.5MM buyout) at year’s end.”"

With Hendricks in the final guaranteed year of his contract, this could very well be his last season with the Cubs. He’s struggled the past few seasons, and would prefer to go out on his own terms in Chicago.