Cubs receive big injury updates on 2 relievers

Despite being on a nine-game winning streak, the Chicago Cubs have a hobbled pitching rotation, especially their relievers. Among them are two right-handers, Phil Maton and Hunter Harvey.

Maton has been on the injured list since April 10 due to right knee tendinitis. Harvey is battling inflammation in his right triceps and was placed on the injured list on April 12.

On Friday, the Cubs got a status report on Maton and Harvey ahead of their game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, per MLB.com. Maton will be heading down to Triple-A Iowa for a rehab assignment, and the Cubs will determine what’s next from there. Meanwhile, Harvey will resume throwing on Friday.

Maton’s last time on the mound was April 7 against the Tampa Bay Rays. He pitched 0.2 innings and gave up three hits in a 9-2 victory. Harvey last pitched on April 8 against the Rays. He pitched one inning and had one strikeout as the Cubs won 6-2.

Harvey is 0-1 with a 6.75 ERA, and Maton is also 0-1 with a 13.50 ERA.

Both are expected to return in May.

Meanwhile, at least 10 other Chicago pitchers are on the injured list. Cade Horton is out for the year to undergo Tommy John surgery. Justin Steele is also out for the season due to an elbow injury.

A far cry from the beginning of the year, when on paper the Cubs had one of the best rotations in the league. As a result, the Cubs will now be relying upon the likes of Edward Cabrera and Shota Imanaga to get them through this tough time.