Cubs pitcher Kyle Hendricks took a loss Wednesday, allowing two earned runs on five hits and three walks in five innings while striking out six in his team's 8-1 defeat against the Pirates.
"I threw pretty well overall, to be honest with you. I had my sinker back, which is the No. 1 key I was working on this week, so I was happy with that," Hendricks said after the game, per MLB.com. "They just had a good approach tonight at the plate, honestly. Laid off some good pitches. That fifth inning just too many pitches, too many deep counts."
Hendricks (0-1) entered the game having issued just one walk in three starts but showed a little wildness Wednesday, and one of the runs he surrendered came on a bases-loaded free pass to Starling Marte. The Pirates were able to tack on four runs in the sixth inning, strengthening the chances that the starter would earn his first loss of the season.
Maddon can see Hendricks making progress despite Wednesday's poor results.
"We've talked about the peripherals. He's really not pitched all that badly," Maddon said. "I guess a lot of inherited runners have scored against him, and that really makes your numbers look worse. His WHIP is actually really good. I think he's throwing the ball well. I think it's a matter of time until it comes together in regard to results, but process-wise, we're really happy with him. He's been fine."
Hendricks owns a 5.23 ERA and 19:4 K:BB ratio in 20 2/3 innings. He's on track to face Cardinals in St. Louis Tuesday.