Cole Hamels Exits Cubs Game vs Reds Prior to 2nd Inning With Apparent Injury
By Karl Rasmussen
Chicago Cubs ace Cole Hamels has been one of the best pitchers in the league this season, but when faced up against the Reds Friday evening, he didn't look like himself.
He surrendered a run in the first inning, and before starting the second inning of play, Hamels was seen walking off the field. He was replaced by Mike Montgomery who is expected to eat some innings in Hamels' stead.
TV replay showed Hamels throwing warmup pitch before walking off mound
— Mark Gonzales (@MDGonzales) June 28, 2019
Hamels was seen throwing warmup pitches ahead of the second frame, but rather than stay in the game, he walked off the mound and headed to the Cubs' dugout.
It's unclear what happened to Hamels, nor what injury he could potentially be dealing with, but this is a major blow to a Cubs team that was looking to gain some ground in the NL Central with a win over the Reds.
He's done. Injury of some sort.
— Jesse Rogers (@ESPNChiCubs) June 28, 2019
Prior to Friday's short-lived outing, Hamels logged a 6-2 record on the season with a sterling 2.92 ERA and 96 strikeouts across 98.2 innings.
Hopefully for Cubs fans this injury isn't too serious, as he's been the bright spot in the rotation of late, especially as Kyle Hendricks is also sidelined with an injury of his own. If Hamels requires a long stint on the shelf, it would be bad news in Wrigleyville.