This was Hendricks’ first start since May 17.

“I still have a long way to go,” Hendricks said. “That’s just one today. I’ve got to keep stacking them together, whatever I’m asked to do or whenever I’m out there.”

“Honestly, I tried to keep it so simple,” Hendricks continued via ESPN.com. “It maybe was like a dream in a way, but I truly tried to lock in on the process. I was just so far from who I was as a pitcher that I really had to commit to my process, commit to getting better every day, almost resetting and restarting a career.”

Hendricks earned his first win of the year, throwing 75 pitches and striking out eight batters while allowing only two hits, one walk, and one earned run. This outing, lasting 5.2 innings, was his longest of the season. Catcher Miguel Amaya, whose unpredictable calls contributed significantly to the 34-year-old pitcher’s success, played a key role.

“If it’s unpredictable to me, I think that’s a good thing right now,” Hendricks said. “It’s being unpredictable for the hitters too, so that’s kind of where we’re at. [Amaya’s] been so locked in. I’m trusting him.”

Cubs manager Craig Counsell on Hendricks adapting to team

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) delivers a pitch against the San Francisco Giants during the first inning at Wrigley Field.
Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports
If there’s one trait that helps the Cubs, it’s Hendricks’ ability to adapt and find different paths to success, exemplified by his trust in Miguel Amaya, a young catcher in his first full season. Chicago manager Craig Counsell emphasized this quality, noting that Hendricks is receptive and proactive in making adjustments.

“The great thing about Kyle is that he never stops trying to figure it out,” Counsell said. “With his accomplishments and his career, it’s easy to say, ‘This is the way I’ve done it.’ And I think Kyle’s real gift is that he’s just open and he’s willing to make those adjustments.”

Hendricks had been primarily involved in the bullpen since May 17, when he made his last start, due to an earned run average (ERA) of just over 10 while in the rotation. However, with injuries affecting the rotation, Hendricks was reintroduced as a starter. He reflected on how his time with the relievers had been highly beneficial.

“Those guys taught me so much down there,” Hendricks said. “I feel like I improved just by sitting down there, hanging out, and talking to them.”

Hendricks reflected on the injuries affecting the Cubs’ rotation, noting his successful stint in the bullpen where, according to MLB.com, he “had not allowed a run in 8 2/3 innings across three relief appearances in June.” Despite his own strong performance, he remained focused on his injured teammates.

“I wouldn’t have been in this spot,” Hendricks said. “We had guys throwing way better than me. Guys that were doing their thing. It’s super unfortunate for them to go down, but I know they’re going to be back soon. They’re going to be a huge part of this team. I’m super excited about that.”

Cubs teammate Dansby Swanson praised Hendricks for his outstanding performance, which earned him a standing ovation from the crowd at Wrigley Field. This response from fans evoked memories of Hendricks’ tenure spanning 11 seasons in Cubs’ pinstripes.

“It was well-deserved,” Swanson said via MLB.com. “Sometimes when you face challenges, the best response is to keep getting back up and pushing forward. Kyle has demonstrated that perseverance not just to himself but to all of us in the team.”

“He’s been pitching really well in his recent outings,” Swanson added. “He consistently shows up and does his job every day. There are so many valuable life lessons to learn from that.”

Regardless, the Cubs continue to strive for more wins as they hold a 36-39 record this season, placing them second to last in the NL Central. However, teams in close proximity such as the Pittsburgh Pirates, Cincinnati Reds, and St. Louis Cardinals are only separated by a game, promising an exciting divisional competition ahead. Chicago’s upcoming game against the New York Mets on Friday afternoon adds to the anticipation.