Kyle Hendricks hit by a line drive during Double-A start

Kyle Hendricks hit by a line drive during Double-A start originally appeared in NBC Sports Chicago

Kyle Hendricks embarked on a rehab stint with the Double-A Tennessee Smokies this week. But during his match, intended to help him rehabilitate from a back illness, he caused another injury.

Here’s what happened.

Hendricks was hit by a line drive during a phenomenal start. The Smokies reported Hendricks to be OK after the play. But it would have been infuriating for the right-hander to suffer another injury while trying to recover from one.

The Cubs veteran had a solid outing. He pitched five innings and allowed two earned runs on six hits. He struck out seven batters and walked none.

Hendricks hasn’t played since April 21, but has struggled throughout the season. In five starts, he posted a 12.00 ERA with 28 runs allowed in just 21 innings of work. The Cubs have not announced how long they plan to keep him in the minors during his rehab period.

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