Cubs pitchers Porter Hodge, Jordan Wicks to start season on IL

MESA, Ariz. — The Chicago Cubs will start the season with relief pitchers Porter Hodge and Jordan Wicks on the injured list, manager Craig Counsell said Sunday.

Counsell said that Hodge, a right-hander, will be shut down from throwing for a few weeks due to a flexor strain, and that lefty Wicks, who has been out since late February, will not be ready for Opening Day due to nerve irritation.

Hodge’s injury came up after his last spring outing a week ago, and imaging on his elbow showed the strain.

“It’s a setback,” Counsell said. “It’s going to put him behind.”

Hodge, 24, was competing for a spot in the bullpen after having a down season in 2025, appearing in 26 games while compiling a 6.27 ERA. He dealt with several injuries during the year and now will have to start his spring all over again when he gets healthy.

“That part’s unfortunate,” Counsell said.

Wicks, 26, has been up-and-down from the minor leagues the past couple of seasons and was considered a depth arm for the Cubs. He’ll get back on the mound later this month with the hope of returning not long after the season begins.

“We weren’t expecting those two guys to get hurt,” Counsell said. “On both ends, we’re fortunate they’re not long-term injuries, so that’s a good thing.”