Starter Spotlight: Gin Up On Hendricks

8-28-24 – By Michael Castrignano – @412DoublePlay on X

The Pirates will look to avoid being swept by the Cubs against the veteran, soft-tossing Kyle Hendricks, who is in the twilight of his career but still somehow can get the best of the Bucs.

Jameson Taillon and Justin Steele both entered this series with poor career marks against the Pirates, redeeming themselves with strong starts in their outings. On the other hand, Hendricks has consistently had success versus Pittsburgh, compiling a 3.81 ERA over 170 innings – though, he struggled in his last outing on May 17th allowing 8 runs (7 earned) off 11 hits through just 4.2 innings.

Hendricks enters today with a 3-10 record and a 6.33 ERA as he has been struggling through statistically his worst professional season where he spent time relegated to the bullpen for the first time in his career. He’s never been one to blow batters away with his stuff, preferring precision over power, but he’s just been wholly ineffective in his 11th MLB season.

He works mostly with his high-80s sinker/4-seam, a low-80s change and a loopy low-70s curve. Only the curve has generated plus results with an oBA of .189 and oSLG of .297 but each of the other pitches have been HAMMERED!

While hitters have had his number from both sides of the plate, he has notably struggled more against left-handed hitters – who have a .882 OPS against him – as well as performing worse away from Wrigley (7.16 ERA in 55.1 innings) than at home (5.32 in 45.2 innings).

Bucs bats will need to watch for the curve and be ready for the hanging “heat” from Hendricks. Don’t let him complete the sweep. Get on his pitches early today and get a win before hitting the road.

Let’s Go Bucs!