The Chicago Cubs have announced that left-handed pitcher Jordan Wicks has been placed on the 15-day injured list due to a Grade 2 oblique strain. The severity of the strain suggests that Wicks will likely be sidelined for a longer period of time than the minimum 15 days. Although a specific timetable for his return has not been determined, his absence could potentially extend to several months if the discomfort persists.

The decision to place Wicks on the IL came after his abbreviated outing in yesterday's start against the St. Louis Cardinals. Wicks experienced tightness in his right side after delivering a pitch and realized that something was amiss when the discomfort persisted for a couple of pitches. This setback is particularly frustrating for Wicks, who only recently returned from a six-week stint on the IL due to a forearm strain.

Despite the injuries, Wicks has had a solid performance this season, pitching a total of 28 innings with a 4.18 ERA. He has demonstrated above-average strikeout, hard-contact, and walk rates, showcasing his value to the Cubs' rotation amidst injuries to other starters.

With Wicks and Ben Brown both sidelined, the Cubs now face a vacancy in their rotation. Manager Craig Counsell hinted that Kyle Hendricks could fill the fifth starter's role. Hendricks was moved to the bullpen last month after struggling in the early part of the season, but he showed promise in his recent relief appearances, posting a 3.14 ERA in 14 1/3 innings. In fact, Hendricks stepped up to the plate during yesterday's game, delivering an impressive 4 1/3 innings of shutout ball after Wicks left early.

Another potential option for the rotation is Hayden Wesneski, who has excelled in the Cubs' bullpen but could be stretched out to handle a starter's workload.

The Cubs will undoubtedly be monitoring Wicks' progress closely, hoping for a swift recovery. His absence from the rotation will be a challenge, but the team remains optimistic about the depth they have to fill the void. In the meantime, Wicks will focus on rehabilitating his oblique injury, eager to return to the mound as soon as possible.