Cubs Relievers Hodge, Wicks to Start Season on IL

Elbow and arm injuries will sideline the pitchers to start the 2026 season.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Chicago Cubs relievers Porter Hodge and Jordan Wicks will begin the 2026 MLB season on the injured list, manager Craig Counsell announced on Sunday. Hodge is dealing with a flexor strain in his right elbow and will stop throwing for a few weeks to recover, while Wicks is sidelined with nerve irritation in his left (throwing) arm.

Why it matters

The injuries to Hodge and Wicks are a setback for the Cubs' bullpen as they look to improve on a disappointing 2025 season. Both pitchers had been expected to play key roles in the team's relief corps this year.

The details

Hodge, a 25-year-old right-hander, had a strong rookie season in 2024 with a 1.88 ERA over 43 innings, but struggled in 2025 with a 6.27 ERA over 33 innings. Wicks, 26, has a 5.21 ERA over 26 appearances (17 starts) and 95 innings for the Cubs over the last three seasons.

  • Hodge and Wicks will start the 2026 MLB season on the injured list.

The players

Porter Hodge

A 25-year-old right-handed relief pitcher for the Chicago Cubs.

Jordan Wicks

A 26-year-old left-handed relief pitcher for the Chicago Cubs.

Craig Counsell

The manager of the Chicago Cubs.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Cubs relievers Porter Hodge and Jordan Wicks will start the season on the injured list, Chicago manager Craig Counsell told reporters Sunday.”

— Craig Counsell, Manager (statenews.net)

The takeaway

The injuries to Hodge and Wicks are a setback for the Cubs' bullpen as they look to bounce back from a disappointing 2025 season. The team will need to find replacements to fill the void left by these two key relievers at the start of the 2026 campaign.