Cubs' Hendricks is 'just simplifying everything'

Kyle Hendricks isn't the first, second or even third name that comes to mind when thinking about the Cubs starting rotation, but he's certainly proving he belongs.

The young right-hander shutout the White Sox for seven innings on Friday night and has thrown 22 1/3 straight scoreless innings.

"I think that mindset [has helped] -- going one pitch at a time and just making good pitches," Hendricks told CSN Chicago. "Trying not to do too much, just simplifying everything."

The 25-year old has a 3.55 ERA this season and has thrown really well, stabalyzing the back end of the Cubs' rotation.

"It starts with command," Cubs manager Joe Maddon said. "Command of all his pitches, command of his fastball, really locating well and then off that, his changeup has been very good.

"He's just in such a really nice rhythm right now. He relies on location a lot. And that's why you've seen some really outstanding outings."

(h/t CSN Chicago)
Photo Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports