Cubs’ Hoerner remains out, but double-play partner Swanson close to return

Cubs second baseman Nico Hoerner missed his fifth straight game Saturday with a tight hamstring, but it's possible the Cubs could have their double-play combination back on the field Tuesday against Atlanta.

Shortstop Dansby Swanson is trending toward coming back from the injured list with a right knee sprain. Cubs manager Craig Counsell called Saturday a good day for Swanson.

“I would say heading in a good direction with that,” Counsell said.

There's a chance Hoerner could play in Sunday's series finale against Pittsburgh. But with an off-day on Monday, it's very possible the Cubs decide to play it safe and give him two more days to rest.

“We’re kind of coming in always hoping he just keeps getting better,” Counsell said. “I think he made some improvements (Friday). We're just going on how he feels and how he's responding. It truly is day-to-day.”

Miles Mastrobuoni has played well defensively at shortstop in the absence of Swanson and Hoerner but was just 2-for-14 at the plate in the four starts heading into Saturday's action.

Brown in relief:

The Cubs are trying to keep Ben Brown and Hayden Wesneski stretched out and ready for starting duty if there's a need. With the bullpen in rough shape, manager Craig Counsell was asked about the possibility of trying Brown in a late-inning relief role, where he'd likely work one inning at a time.

“We don't have the depth right now to say, 'There's no chance that Ben Brown starts,'” Counsell said. “We're not there yet. I think if you get to a position of strength, maybe it's something you can consider. I also think Ben gets better by being out on the mound more and he develops by pitching more innings. I think we can do that and still pitch him in spots that are important.”

Starter Jordan Wicks (left forearm strain) is making progress. Counsell estimated he'll throw two bullpen sessions, then go out for a rehab start if all goes well. Veteran Drew Smyly (right hip impingement) is further along and is expected to pitch in South Bend next week.

Next move for Hendricks:

Would the Cubs consider using struggling starter Kyle Hendricks in a relief role? That's something Hendricks has done just twice in his 11 years with the Cubs.

Hendricks came in during the 13-inning wild card game against Colorado in 2018 and was the losing pitcher. He also pitched a couple innings of relief in 2016 just before the all-star break.

“I think we have to consider everything,” manager Craig Counsell said. “It's definitely something over the next couple of days we're assessing for sure. The off day provides us some space here. I do think taking some time to think about it is the right thing to do as well.

“Again, we're in a spot where we need Kyle's innings right now. We've got injury issues. I think that's part of this conversation for sure.”

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