PT TODAY: Wesneski claims rotation spot in Chicago

NATIONAL LEAGUE  |  Jump to AL

Cubs

NEWS: Chicago announced that RHP Hayden Wesneski will open the year as the team’s fifth starter. In a related move, RHP Adrian Sampson was optioned to AAA-Iowa.

IMPACT: Medium

BHQ SPIN: Wesneski and Sampson entered spring training as the top candidates for the vacant fifth starter role along with Javier Assad. Over the course of spring training, Wesneski emerged as the top option, putting together an impressive stat line (17 IP, 2.12 ERA, 1.12 WHIP, 22 K, 6 BB). Meanwhile, Sampson struggled mightily (17.2 IP, 8.66 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 16 K, 5 BB). Wesneski will likely be given a leash in the rotation at least until Kyle Hendricks (shoulder) is ready to return from the IL in May or June. However, it is...

Almost!

You’re just a few clicks away from accessing this feature and hundreds more throughout the year that have a singular goal in mind: Winning your league. Subscribe to BaseballHQ.com here!

Already a subscriber? Sign in here

More From PT Today

MacKenzie Gore's trade has rotation implications for both Texas and Washington. Plus Bader lands in San Francisco.
Jan 28 2026 3:03am
A NYC-heavy column, with Bellinger, Peralta, Robert Jr. all affecting their teams' playing time outlook.
Jan 22 2026 9:57am
Bo Bichette moves to Flushing; Realmuto stays in Philly; Caratini to Minnesota; and more...
Jan 20 2026 9:08am
Kyle Tucker is rightfully pumped after pocketing $240M. What does it mean for the LA roster? Plus ripples from the Ranger Suárez and CIN-TB-LAA trade.
Jan 16 2026 9:33am
The Ryan Weathers trade from Miami to New York has implications for both starting staffs with spring training just four weeks away. Plus the Nolan Arenado era comes to an end in St. Louis.
Jan 14 2026 9:15am

Tools