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Thielbar to IL; Lopez, Velasquez join Cubs bullpen

PUBLISHED Apr 24, 2026, 11:41 PM ET

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Los Angeles: The Chicago Cubs placed left-hander Caleb Thielbar on the 15-day injured list Friday with a left hamstring strain after he was removed following one batter faced Thursday; the club also transferred right-hander Porter Hodge to the 60-day IL and designated infielder Scott Kingery for assignment. They called up Vince Velasquez and added Nicky Lopez to the 40-man roster. Chicago: The moves provide immediate roster flexibility for Friday's series opener, following the team's 6-4 win over the Dodgers and 10th straight victory; Lopez rejoined the major-league roster and Hodge's placement follows his ongoing recovery from Tommy John surgery, while the club will monitor Thielbar's recovery through the coming week.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

March 22 — Porter Hodge originally placed on the injured list with a right elbow strain and later underwent Tommy John surgery.
Thursday (this week) — Caleb Thielbar was removed from the game after facing one batter.
Friday (this week) — Cubs placed Thielbar on the 15-day IL with a left hamstring strain.
Friday (this week) — Porter Hodge transferred to the 60-day IL and Scott Kingery designated for assignment.
Friday (this week) — Cubs selected contracts of Nicky Lopez and Vince Velasquez from Triple-A Iowa and added them to the 40-man roster.

News Intelligence

These changes in the Cubs' lineup could impact the team's performance. If you're a fan, keep an eye on how Velasquez and Lopez perform. If you're into fantasy baseball, consider the potential of these new additions to your roster.

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Who Benefited

Nicky Lopez and Vince Velasquez benefited by being added to the 40-man roster and receiving MLB playing opportunities, while the Cubs gained roster flexibility to manage immediate bullpen and infield needs.

Who Impacted

Caleb Thielbar suffered a left hamstring strain and was placed on the 15-day injured list, reducing the Cubs' bullpen depth; Porter Hodge remains on the 60-day IL and Scott Kingery was designated for assignment, impacting the club's infield options.

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