Cubs Rotation Depth Takes Major Hit with Latest Injury Update

Chicago's pitching staff faces early setback with Jordan Wicks sidelined

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Chicago Cubs entered the offseason looking to shore up their pitching staff, but an early injury to Jordan Wicks, one of their swing starter options, has dealt a blow to their rotation depth. Wicks is expected to miss at least the first month of the season with left forearm inflammation caused by nerve irritation, leaving the Cubs to get creative in filling his role.

Why it matters

The Cubs were counting on Wicks to provide valuable innings as a swing starter, and his absence will test the team's pitching depth early in the season. With the team needing to navigate a full MLB schedule, losing a key piece like Wicks could have ripple effects throughout the rotation.

The details

Wicks was not expected to break camp in the Cubs' starting rotation, but he was slated to be one of the first names called upon when the team needed an opener or spot starter. Now sidelined with the forearm injury, the Cubs will likely turn to Javier Assad, Colin Rea, and even prospect Ben Brown to fill the void left by Wicks' absence.

  • Wicks was placed on the injured list over the weekend.
  • He is expected to be off the mound until at least mid to late March.
  • Wicks' injury will likely cause him to miss the first month of the 2026 season.

The players

Jordan Wicks

A swing starter option for the Cubs who is sidelined with left forearm inflammation caused by nerve irritation.

Javier Assad

A Cubs pitcher who is expected to benefit from Wicks' absence and see increased opportunities.

Colin Rea

Another Cubs pitcher who could see more chances with Wicks out of the mix.

Ben Brown

A Cubs prospect who may now get an earlier opportunity due to Wicks' injury.

Jed Hoyer

The Cubs' president of baseball operations who has emphasized the need for pitching depth.

Craig Counsell

The Cubs' manager who has also highlighted the importance of having multiple starting options.

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What’s next

The Cubs will need to determine the best way to fill Wicks' role in the short term, with Assad, Rea, and Brown all potential options to step up. The team will also monitor Wicks' recovery timeline and hope he can return to the mound sooner than expected.

The takeaway

This early injury to Jordan Wicks is a significant blow to the Cubs' pitching depth, underscoring the importance of having multiple starting options ready to go throughout the long MLB season. The team will need to get creative in the coming weeks to compensate for Wicks' absence, with several young arms poised to get increased opportunities.