Porter Hodge Injured Again: A Dream Unfulfilled
The Chicago Cubs announced on July 9 that promising 23-year-old pitcher Porter Hodge has been placed on the 15-day IL due to shoulder impingement syndrome, one of the most devastating injuries for a pitcher.
This is Hodge’s third serious injury in just 13 months, following problems with his hip and oblique muscles earlier in the season. Although he is still being monitored, experts are concerned that this layoff could be longer than expected and seriously affect his development path in the Cubs’ youth pitching system.
Unconcealed Disappointment: “I’m Afraid I’m Letting Everyone Down”
In a quick media briefing in the Wrigley Field treatment area, Porter Hodge choked up:
“I’ve been training so hard to get back, and I just wanted to be able to contribute to the team – even if it’s just a few innings. But then… this role. I don’t know how long I have to wait to get back on the field.”
Although he has only been called up to the starting lineup a few times, Hodge has left a strong impression with his 97-98 mph speed and fierce fighting spirit. However, consecutive injuries have seriously tested his spirit.
“I was wondering: Am I not good enough? But then I remembered: The Cubs believe in me. And so, I’m going to come back, no matter how slow it takes,” he said with red eyes.
Hodge’s shock has made the Cubs “sweat” even more when the bullpen is already seriously lacking. Ethan Roberts has been called up to replace him, but considering MLB experience and stable performance, Hodge is considered a better long-term reliever or spot starter.
While waiting for Hodge to recover, the Cubs may have to consider adding pitching from the trade deadline market, or continue to take risks with inexperienced talents in Triple-A such as Daniel Palencia or Ben Brown.
Despite being somewhat pessimistic, Hodge affirmed that he will not give up:
“I just need more time. Maybe this is not my season, but that doesn’t mean I won’t come back stronger. I owe it to my teammates to come back worthy.”
That sentence – “I owe it to my teammates” – moved thousands of Cubs fans on social media. Perhaps, once again, Porter Hodge’s resilience will be what inspires the team itself – as he has been on previous returns.