Jordan Hicks Injury News & Updates

Hicks picked up the save Monday against Washington. He allowed one walk in a scoreless inning.

After Jordan Romano threw 36 pitches in Sunday's extra-inning loss, the Blue Jays turned to Hicks in the ninth Monday. He worked around a two-out walk to close out a 6-3 win, earning his fourth save with Toronto and his 12th of the year. Hicks had been somewhat shaky since returning to a setup role behind Romano, allowing three runs and two homers in his prior 5.2 innings. Overall, he sports a 3.74 ERA with a 1.42 WHIP and 69:27 K:BB across 53 innings this season.

Hicks earned a save against the Guardians on Wednesday by retiring the only batter he faced.

With Toronto clinging to a 1-0 lead heading into the bottom of the ninth frame, it was Tim Mayza who got the call from the bullpen to close things out. The southpaw retired two of the three batters he faced, but the right-handed Hicks was called upon to finish the job against righty Oscar Gonzalez with two outs and a runner on first. Hicks needed just two pitches to do, getting Gonzalez to pop out to second base. In doing so, the hurler recorded his third save in the past five days. Hicks appears to be the favorite for save opportunities among Blue Jays relievers for the time being, though Jordan Romano (back) tossed another bullpen session Wednesday and will almost certainly resume closer duties upon his return.

Hicks earned a save against Cleveland on Monday, allowing one hit and one walk in one scoreless inning.

Hicks got the call from the bullpen with the Blue Jays up 3-1 in the ninth frame. The right-hander quickly found himself in trouble after hitting the first batter he faced and then yielding a single to Jose Ramirez. However, Hicks was able to retire the next two hitters, and after loading the bases by walking Gabriel Arias, he got Brayan Rocchio to ground out to escape the jam. It wasn't a smooth conversion by any means, but Hicks has been successful in both his save chances since joining Toronto and may get another opportunity or two before Jordan Romano (back) returns to reclaim the ninth-inning job.

Hicks struck out one in 1.1 perfect innings of relief Friday to record his ninth save of the season, and first as a Blue Jay, in a 7-3 win over the Red Sox.

The Jays held a three-run lead when Hicks took the mound in the bottom of the eighth, and the insurance run they tacked on in the ninth didn't cause him to take his foot off the gas -- the right-hander needed only nine pitches, all strikes, to get the four outs and he topped out at 99.9 mph with his power sinker. Toronto is using a closing committee while Jordan Romano (back) is on the shelf, and while Hicks will likely continue to split save chances with Yimi Garcia and Erik Swanson depending on availability and matchups, performances like this will make manager John Schneider very comfortable deploying his newest high-leverage option at the end of games.

The Cardinals agreed to trade Hicks to the Blue Jays on Sunday, Craig Mish of the Miami Herald reports.

The trade return remains unclear, but Toronto wasted little time bolstering the back end of its bullpen after closer Jordan Romano (back) landed on the injured list Saturday. Hicks had a rough start to the season with 11 earned runs allowed in his first 14 outings, but he has a 1.88 ERA over 28.2 innings since May 8 and has been effective as St. Louis' closer over the past six weeks. The flame-throwing righty should be the favorite for save opportunities in Toronto while Romano is sidelined, though Erik Swanson and Yimi Garcia could also be in the mix.

Hicks earned a save against the Marlins on Monday, allowing three hits over one scoreless inning.

Hicks was called upon in the ninth inning to protect a two-run lead and quickly surrendered a leadoff single. That was erased when Luis Arraez followed by grounding into a double play, but Hicks soon found himself in trouble again when each of the next two batters notched a hit off him. However, the righty reliever managed to recover and induced a groundout to close the contest. Hicks has yielded nine hits and two walks over his past 6.1 innings but has been able to record three saves in four chances while giving up just two earned runs across six appearances over that span.

Hicks (1-6) took the extra-inning loss in Game 1 of Saturday's doubleheader, allowing two runs (one earned) on two hits while striking out one over two innings.

The game was resumed after getting suspended Friday due to weather. Hicks got through the ninth inning without much trouble, but gave up a pair of runs in the 10th to take the loss. He's now at a 3.93 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 56:23 K:BB through 38.2 innings overall while adding seven saves, six holds and three blown saves. Hicks had a strong June, but he's now given up five runs (three earned) over his last seven outings.

Hicks gave up two hits and struck out one in a scoreless ninth inning Saturday to record his seventh save of the season in a 3-0 win over the White Sox.

The right-hander continues to thrive since his move back into the closer role. Over his last nine appearances, Hicks has converted seven of eight save chances while posting a 2.16 ERA, 1.20 WHIP and 10:2 K:BB through 8.1 innings. Ryan Helsley (forearm) appears to be on track to return to the St. Louis bullpen before the end of July, but if Hicks keeps performing at this level, he could well retain at least a share of the team's ninth-inning duties.

Hicks picked up the save in Thursday's 3-0 win over the Marlins. He struck out one over a perfect inning.

Hicks grabbed his sixth save of the campaign Thursday, each of which has come since No. 1 closer Ryan Helsley (forearm) was placed on the 15-day IL on June 12. Since Helsley's injury, Hicks has handled closing duties and owns a 2.00 ERA and a 12:2 K:BB through nine appearances (9.0 innings).

Hicks (1-5) took the loss and a blown save Wednesday versus the Marlins, allowing two runs (one earned) on two hits and a walk while striking out one in one-third of an inning.

The Cardinals took the lead in the top of the ninth inning, but Hicks' own throwing error allowed the Marlins to score the winning run. Over his previous seven appearances, he'd given up just one run while striking out 10 across 7.2 innings, picking up five saves and a hold in the process. Hicks has generally been good since stepping into the closer role with Ryan Helsley (forearm) out. For the season, Hicks is at a 4.15 ERA, 1.53 WHIP, 53:23 K:BB, five saves and six holds through 34.2 innings.

Hicks struck out one in a perfect ninth inning Tuesday to record his fifth save of the season in a 4-2 win over the Astros.

The right-hander topped out at 99.5 mph with his final pitch as he caught Jeremy Pena looking. Hicks has converted saves in five straight appearances since taking over the closer role from Ryan Helsley (forearm), relegating Giovanny Gallegos to setup duties. The notoriously wild Hicks, who has a 13.5 percent walk rate for his career, also hasn't issued a free pass in six straight games, and over the last month he sports a 2.84 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 19:4 K:BB through 12.2 innings. If he can maintain that kind of control, he might well hang onto ninth-inning duties the rest of the year.

Hicks (illness) picked up the save in Sunday's 7-5 win over the Cubs, allowing one run on one hit over one inning. He struck out two and didn't record a walk.

Hicks was deemed unavailable for the first contest in London due to an illness, but he was cleared ahead of Sunday's matchup and was called upon in the ninth inning with a three-run lead. Hicks worked around a leadoff double from Nick Madrigal to record his fourth save over the past eight days, running away with the closing job since Ryan Helsley (forearm) hit the injured list. Helsley isn't close to returning, so Hicks, who owns a 14.3 K/9 through 30 appearances, is a must-roster player in all fantasy formats moving forward.

Hicks (illness) is available for Sunday's game versus the Cubs in London, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

The flame-throwing righty was unavailable for Saturday's contest due to an illness, but he likely wouldn't have pitched regardless with St. Louis losing 9-1. Hicks has recorded the Cardinals' past three saves and appears to be the club's primary closing option with Ryan Helsley (forearm) on the shelf and not close to being activated, per John Denton of MLB.com. Giovanny Gallegos could also be a factor in the ninth-inning mix.

Hicks will not be available for Saturday's game against the Cubs due to illness, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Jordan Walker was forced out of the lineup with an illness Wednesday, and Hicks is now facing a similar issue. It should be a short-term absence, but any save opportunity would likely be handled by Giovanny Gallegos on Saturday.

Hicks picked up the save in Monday's 8-6 victory over Washington, allowing one hit during a scoreless inning. He struck out one and did not record a walk.

With Ryan Helsley (forearm) on the injured list, Hicks has locked down saves in three consecutive days. The flamethrowing right-hander started his career as a closer, but he struggled to stay healthy and had been limited to set-up duties when available. Nonetheless, Hicks is healthy now and has a clear path to late-inning opportunities, so he should be rostered in basically every fantasy format. Giovanny Gallegos figures to get some ninth-inning work with Helsley unavailable too, but it appears to be Hicks' job to lose for now.

Hicks picked up the save Sunday against the Mets, allowing one hit over a scoreless inning. He did not record a strikeout or walk.

With Ryan Helsley (forearm) on the injured list, Hicks has locked down saves in back-to-back days. Giovanny Gallegos also figures to get some ninth-inning work with Helsley unavailable, but it appears it's Hicks' job to lose for now. The right-hander started his career as a closer, but he's struggled to stay healthy and was mostly limited to step-up duties when available.

Hicks struck out the side in a scoreless ninth inning Saturday to record his first save of the season in a 5-3 win over the Mets. He also hit a batter and threw a wild pitch.

Giovanny Gallegos was expected to step into the closer role for the Cardinals while Ryan Helsley (forearm) was on the shelf, but instead Gallegos worked the eighth inning Saturday against the middle of the Mets' order while Hicks handled the ninth. The save was his first since 2019, as injuries and a failed conversion to starting took him out of the team's high-leverage mix, but it seems the flamethrowing right-hander will get another chance to help lock up wins for St. Louis. After a bumpy first month of the season, Hicks has a 3.00 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 28:11 K:BB through 18 innings since the beginning of May.

Hicks (1-4) allowed a run on a hit and a walk while striking out one over one inning to take the loss Sunday versus the Reds.

Hicks put two runners on base and then yielded a fielder's choice to Tyler Stephenson, who knocked in the Reds' go-ahead run. After a month-long, 12.1-inning scoreless streak, Hicks has yielded three runs over 1.1 innings in two appearances versus Cincinnati. He's now at a 4.73 ERA, 1.69 WHIP and 42:21 K:BB over 26.2 innings with five holds and two blown saves this season. With four walks over his last four innings, Hicks will need to once again regain his command to be an effective reliever.

Hicks (1-3) allowed a hit and struck out one in a scoreless inning to earn the win Wednesday over the Rangers.

Since a three-run blow-up versus the Tigers on May 5, Hicks has been excellent with 12.1 scoreless innings with an 18:4 K:BB. He was able to get the win in a 1-0 contest Wednesday, keeping the game scoreless in the seventh inning before Alec Burleson put the Cardinals ahead in the eighth. Hicks is now at a 3.91 ERA, 1.54 WHIP and 40:18 K:BB through 25.1 innings overall, but his recent work has helped him reclaim some work in high-leverage spots. He's added five holds and two blown saves in 24 appearances.

Hicks (0-3) took the loss and a blown save Friday versus the Tigers, allowing three runs on a hit and two walks with one strikeout in two-thirds of an inning. He also hit a batter.

Hicks had shown improvements over recent weeks, allowing just one unearned run -- which led to a loss -- in his last 6.2 innings. That was all gone in a messy seventh inning Friday, which saw him throw just 14 of 26 pitches for strikes. His control issues have cropped up again with five walks over his last three appearances. Hicks is at a 7.62 ERA, 2.38 WHIP and 22:14 K:BB through 13 innings this season.

Hicks (0-2) allowed an unearned run on two hits and struck out four without walking a batter, but he took the loss Wednesday versus the Giants.

A two-out fielding error by Lars Nootbaar and a subsequent wild pitch from Hicks allowed the Giants' Mitch Haniger to score the go-ahead run. Hicks has been used in low-leverage situations for a little over a week, but he entered a tied game on a three-inning scoreless streak and couldn't maintain the lead. The hard-throwing righty trimmed his ERA to 6.97, but he has an awful 2.32 WHIP and a 17:9 K:BB through 10.1 innings. He's issued just one walk over his last five outings, but he's also uncorked two wild pitches in that span and still has some work to do to get his control in line.

Cardinals manager Oli Marmol told reporters before Sunday's game against the Pirates that Hicks will work in low-leverage situations going forward, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

""We need to figure out a way for [Hicks] to be more effective & usable," Marmol said. "We've got to have a good enough plan to do that, where he's comfortable with it & we feel good about it." Hicks struggled again in a loss to the Pirates on Sunday while allowing three runs -- two earned -- and getting just one out in the process. The hard-throwing reliever now has a 12.71 ERA, 3.35 WHIP and 6:8 K:BB across 5.2 innings. The Cardinals are unable to send Hicks down to Triple-A because of his service time, so he'll have to work through his struggles while a member of the big-league club.

Hicks (0-1) allowed three runs (two earned) on three hits and struck out one in one-third of an inning, taking the loss Saturday versus the Pirates.

Hicks has often put himself behind the eight-ball in his appearances this season, as he's had trouble retiring the first batter he faces. That was the case Saturday, as Andrew McCutchen took him deep for a two-run home run to begin the 10th inning. Hicks has an awful 12.71 ERA, 3.35 WHIP and 6:8 K:BB across 5.2 innings over 5.2 ininngs. His velocity is as strong as ever, but he hasn't found any way to harness it with control, so Hicks remains an unappealing fantasy option.

Hicks has allowed four earned runs on six hits and five walks while striking out six over 5.2 innings over six Grapefruit League appearances.

Hicks' strikeout potential remains enticing, but the overall results are not where they need to be to feel confident about his ability to fill a high-leverage role. With experience as a starter, there's always the option to stretch Hicks out for long-relief duties, but the right-hander has also had success in the past as a reliever. He's little more than a late-draft dart throw in fantasy given his skill set.

Hicks is expected to earn high-leverage spots as a reliever to begin 2023, Derrick Goold of The St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Hicks split time as a starter and a reliever last season, but he was more effective out of the bullpen. The hard-throwing righty has added some weight to get back to where his body is most comfortable, and that should in turn help his durability after he missed time with shoulder, forearm and neck issues throughout 2022. Manager Oliver Marmol tends to avoid strict roles in the bullpen, so Hicks should join Ryan Helsley and Giovanny Gallegos as the Cardinals' top late-inning options.

Hicks and the Cardinals agreed on a one-year, $1.8375 contract Friday, Jon Heyman of the New York Post reports.

Hicks and the team will avoid arbitration after coming to terms on a deal for 2023 on Friday. The right-hander produced a 4.84 ERA and 1.32 WHIP with 63 strikeouts and eight holds over 61.1 innings in 35 appearances, including eight starts, with St. Louis last season. Hicks will likely open the 2023 campaign as a setup option ahead of closer Ryan Helsley in the Cardinals' bullpen.

The Cardinals will activate Hicks (neck) from the 15-day injured list Wednesday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Hicks is expected to make an one-inning appearance in relief behind starter Matthew Liberatore in Wednesday's regular-season finale in Pittsburgh, and assuming he checks out fine following the outing, the 26-year-old right-hander will likely have a spot on the Cardinals' roster for the wild-card round of the playoffs. Across 60.1 innings with St. Louis in 2022, Hicks has generated a 4.92 ERA, 1.31 WHIP and 63:35 K:BB while collecting eight holds.

Hicks (neck/arm) had a strong bullpen session Friday and is on track to be activated from the 15-day injured list prior to the end of the regular season, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Hicks appears set for a fairly minimal stay after hitting the IL Sept. 17. The 26-year-old right-hander had a 4.87 ERA and 1.23 WHIP across 20.1 innings between the start of August and when he was shelved with fatigue and neck spasms, so he's likely to slot into a mid-leverage role once he's ready to go. Assuming he doesn't have a setback in the next couple of days, he'll likely have time to appear in one regular-season game before the postseason begins.

Hicks (neck/arm) is scheduled to throw a bullpen session Friday, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

The right-hander played catch from 150 feet Tuesday and Wednesday, clearing the way for him to advance to mound work. Assuming all goes well Friday, Hicks is then expected to throw another bullpen session Sunday in hopes of returning from the injured list next week.

Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Hicks (neck) was feeling better Wednesday, but remains on a "no-throw, rest program," John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Hicks also reported feeling a "strange sensation" in his arm to go along with his fatigue, however an MRI revealed no structural damage. There remains no word on how soon Hicks will be able to return to St. Louis' bullpen.

Hicks landed on the injured list Saturday due to fatigue and neck spasms, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Hicks has allowed three runs in 3.2 innings across his last three appearances, but it's unclear if those struggles are injury-related. He hasn't been good throughout the second half, pitching to a 6.46 ERA in 23.2 frames since the break, something which could perhaps be explained by fatigue. Steven Matz (knee) was activated off the injured list to take his place in the bullpen.

Hicks (3-6) allowed two runs on two walks and struck out one in 1.1 innings, taking the loss Thursday against the Rockies.

Hicks got through the sixth inning without trouble, but he walked two batters with one out in the seventh. Genesis Cabrera couldn't stop the Rockies' momentum in what became a six-run frame, with Hicks getting charged with the loss. The flame-throwing right-hander has seen more high-leverage work lately, picking up four holds in his last nine appearances. He owns a 4.89 ERA, 1.30 WHIP and 44:31 K:BB through 46 innings across 23 outings (eight starts) this year, though he remains in more of a versatile relief role at this part of the season.

Hicks (3-5) earned the win in Game 2 of Thursday's doubleheader versus the Cubs. He allowed a run on a hit and two walks in one inning.

The Cubs tied the game at 2-2 against Hicks in the seventh inning, but Tyler O'Neill's three-run home run in the bottom of the frame put the Cardinals ahead again. In his last 5.1 innings, Hicks has surrendered seven runs on five hits, four walks and two hit batters. He had some initially promising results in early July after moving back to the bullpen, but his recent form is likely to keep him in a middle-relief role. For the season, the right-hander owns a 4.93 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 38:28 K:BB across 42 innings through 20 appearances (eight starts).

Hicks (2-5) allowed four runs on three hits and two walks in 1.2 innings Tuesday versus the Blue Jays, taking the loss.

Hicks entered the game to begin the fifth inning, but he ran into trouble in the sixth. He left the bases loaded for Junior Fernandez to face George Springer, with the Blue Jays' slugger smacking a grand slam. With five runs allowed in 2.1 innings since the All-Star break, Hicks has effectively lost the momentum he gained from an eight-inning scoreless streak prior to the break. The flame-throwing righty has a 4.85 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 35:26 K:BB across 39 innings in 17 appearances (eight starts). Until he can settle down again, Hicks is likely to see a multi-inning relief role.

Hicks allowed a hit and three walks with one strikeout in 1.2 innings as the opener in Tuesday's 7-6 win over the Dodgers. He did not factor in the decision.

Hicks has seen time as a starter and a middle reliever so far, but Tuesday was his first turn as an opener. While he kept runs off the board, he threw only 18 of 38 pitches for strikes in an erratic outing. Hicks has pitched 6.2 scoreless innings since returning from a forearms strain in early July. He has a 4.08 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 34:24 K:BB across 35.1 innings in 14 outings (eight starts) overall, though his usage is likely to remain flexible.

Hicks will serve as the Cardinals' opening pitcher in Tuesday's game against the Dodgers, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Hicks has previously made seven starts with St. Louis this season, but he's made each of his four appearances since coming off the 10-day injured list July 2 following a five-week absence due to a forearm injury. Manager Oliver Marmol recently hinted at the possibility of using Hicks as an opener, and the skipper determined that a matchup with a fearsome top half of the Dodgers lineup was a good spot to use the right-hander. Hicks will likely work one or two innings before giving way to bulk reliever Matthew Liberatore, who had generally struggled while working as a traditional starter over his first six big-league outings.

Hicks (forearm) allowed two hits in 1.2 scoreless innings Saturday versus the Phillies. He did not strike out or walk a batter.

Hicks missed over a month with the forearm strain, and he returned in a multi-inning role. The hard-throwing right-hander appears set to remain in the bullpen for the rest of the season after beginning the year as a starter. He has a 4.75 ERA, 1.38 WHIP and 29:20 K:BB across 10 appearances (seven starts). Hicks will have some time to acclimate himself to long relief again, but success in that role could he see him eventually joining the Cardinals' high-leverage mix since he has previous closing experience.

Hicks (forearm) was reinstated from the 15-day injured list Saturday.

Hicks has been sidelined since late May due to a right forearm injury, but he spent the last week and a half at Triple-A Memphis on a rehab assignment. The 25-year-old posted a 12.60 ERA and 2.20 WHIP in five innings over four appearances (one start) in the minors and should serve as a multi-inning reliever for the Cardinals now that he's back to full health.

Hicks (forearm) is scheduled to make one-inning rehab appearances Tuesday and Wednesday with Triple-A Memphis, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Pitching on back-to-back days likely represents the final checkpoint Hicks will need to hit in his recovery from a right forearm strain before the Cardinals likely bring him back from the 15-day injured list during this weekend's series in Philadelphia. Hicks had started or served as a bulk reliever in each of his first nine appearances of the season with the big club prior to landing on the shelf May 26, but he's slated to work as a multi-inning option out of the bullpen once he's activated.

Hicks (forearm) will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis on Monday, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Hicks has been out for nearly a month with a flexor injury. The length of his absence means he'll probably need more than one rehab outing, though the Cardinals have yet to specify exactly when he's expected to return. The righty is reportedly expected to pitch in a relief role upon his return to the majors.

Hicks (forearm) felt great after a 30-pitch bullpen session Wednesday and will likely begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis later this week, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Hicks has been on the shelf since May 26, but he's completed two bullpen sessions since Sunday. Denton adds that Hicks is likely to serve as a reliever during his rehab assignment, which would line him up to return to the big-league bullpen once he's activated from the injured list. If that's what happens, expect rookie Andre Pallante to maintain his place in the rotation until Steven Matz (shoulder) is able to return. Hicks logged a 5.02 ERA and 29:20 K:BB across 28.2 innings in nine appearances (seven starts) before he landed on the injured list, but he's previously served as a high-leverage reliever in the majors in past seasons.

Hicks (forearm) felt "great" after a 25-pitch bullpen session Sunday, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Hicks has been sidelined with a flexor injury since late May. He doesn't have a precise return date, but he's trending in the right direction. He still has several steps to go before returning from the injured list, however, especially as he wasn't quite throwing at his full velocity for most of Sunday's session.

Hicks (forearm) will throw a bullpen session Sunday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Hicks has taken it easy since landing on the injured list in late May, but he is on the verge of throwing off a mound. Hicks' status will be updated again when the Cardinals release more information about his status.

Hicks (forearm) is about a week from throwing off a mound, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

He threw for a second time Sunday and may throw another time or two before progressing to mound work. From there, a rehab assignment would be the next step, so a late-June return seems like the best-case scenario.

Hicks was placed on the 15-day injured list Thursday with a right forearm flexor strain.

Hicks apparently suffered the injury during Tuesday's start against Toronto, when he was charged with the loss after surrendering four runs on five walks over three innings. According to Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat, the 25-year-old doesn't believe it's a serious injury, though the medical imaging he recently underwent has yet to be analyzed.

Hicks (1-4) took the loss Tuesday, giving up four runs on four hits and five walks over three-plus innings as the Cardinals were routed 8-1 by the Blue Jays. He struck out three.

The conversion of Hicks from the bullpen to the rotation continues to go poorly, and Tuesday's five walks were a season high as he got only 40 of 78 pitches over the plate. The right-hander has managed to last five innings only once in seven starts and he's issued multiple free passes in all seven, posting a 5.84 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 24:18 K:BB over 24.2 innings during that stretch.

Hicks pitched four innings against the Mets on Wednesday, allowing two runs on three hits and three walks while striking out five. He did not factor in the decision.

Hicks struggled mightily with his control throughout the outing, as only 39 of his 82 pitches crossed the plate. He issued a season-high three walks and hit two batters, but he escaped substantial damage as the Mets left five runners on base during his four innings. Hicks has completed five innings only once this season and has issued multiple free passes in each of his past six appearances. Those numbers don't bode well for his fantasy outlook despite the fact that he has struck out over a batter per inning. Hicks' next start is tentatively slated to come at home against Toronto next week.

Hicks (1-3) allowed three runs on three hits and two walks over five innings Friday, striking out three and taking a loss against San Francisco.

Hicks gave up an RBI single to Luis Gonzalez in the second inning followed by Mike Yastrzemski's two-run double in the third. It was the longest outing of Hicks' MLB career and the first time this season that he allowed more than two runs. His ERA is up to 4.15 with a 21:12 K:BB through 21.2 innings. Hicks is expected to face the Mets on the road next week.

Hicks, who was scratched from Thursday's start against the Orioles, will start Friday against the Giants, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

While the Cardinals didn't initially provide an explanation for starting Steven Matz on Thursday, the team simply wanted to give Hicks an additional day to rest. Over his last four appearances, Hicks has posted a 4.97 ERA and 1.34 WHIP in 12.2 innings, and he's failed to last longer than 4.1 innings in any of his starts this year.

Hicks is no longer scheduled to start Thursday's game against the Orioles in St. Louis, with Steven Matz getting the nod instead, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

The Cardinals didn't provide an immediate explanation for the switch from Hicks to Matz, but it's conceivable that the former is dealing with an injury or illness that might have made him unavailable to pitch. Additional details regarding Hicks' absence should come within the next few hours, but for now, the right-hander projects to make his next start over the weekend against the Giants.

Hicks registered a no-decision during Friday's 3-2 win over the Giants, allowing two runs on three hits and two walks with five strikeouts in 4.1 innings.

Hicks held San Francisco's offense in check early but permitted the first two batters in the fifth to get on base, prompting his removal. Genesis Cabrera subsequently let both runners score, giving Hicks two earned runs allowed in three straight starts. After opening the season with two scoreless relief appearances, the 25-year-old has now allowed seven runs in 12.2 innings across four starts. He'll look to build on the career high 4.1 innings and 68 pitches as he's scheduled to face Baltimore next week.

Hicks allowed two runs on two hits and two walks with four strikeouts in 3.1 innings in a no-decision versus the Diamondbacks on Sunday. He also hit a batter.

Both of the hits Hicks allowed left the yard, as he surrendered solo home runs to Jordan Luplow and Christian Walker. The good news is Hicks showed no ill effects from a bruised wrist that took him out of last start prematurely. The right-hander stretched out to 63 pitches (35 strikes) in this start, his longest of three this season. Through 12.1 innings, he's logged a 3.65 ERA, 1.22 WHIP, 13:8 K:BB and a 1-2 record. He's projected to make his next start on the road in San Francisco.

Hicks (wrist) is listed as the starter for Sunday's game against Arizona, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Hicks exited his previous start Tuesday against the Mets after taking a comebacker off his right wrist. He hasn't been diagnosed with anything worse than a bruise and appears set to avoid missing a start. He's unlikely to pitch deep into Sunday's contest, as he's topped out at three innings this season.

Hicks had X-rays on his right wrist come back negative after leaving Tuesday's game against the Mets, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports

The 25-year-old was struck on the right wrist by a 97-mph comebacker during Tuesday's start, but it appears he escaped with just a bruise. He gave up two runs on two hits with two walks and a strikeout over two innings before exiting the contest and is in line for the loss. Hicks next turn through the rotation lines up for Sunday versus Arizona, though it's unclear if he'll be available for that start.

Hicks was removed from Tuesday's start against the Mets with a right wrist contusion, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Hicks was struck on the wrist by a 97-mph comebacker during the second inning and initially remained in the game, but he was in clear discomfort on the mound during the third and was lifted after badly spiking a pitch. The right-hander allowed two runs on two hits with two walks and a strikeout over two innings and exited in line for the loss. Hicks' availability for his next turn through the rotation is up in the air as he continues to be evaluated.

Hicks (1-1) took the loss against Miami on Thursday, pitching three innings and allowing one run on two hits and two walks while striking out three.

Hicks is working on transitioning from the bullpen to a spot in the rotation, so he was capped at 46 pitches Thursday. The right-hander allowed only a second-inning run and kept the Marlins from registering any extra-base hits, but the Cardinals' offense was shut out, thus handing Hicks his first loss. He'll likely continue to gradually push his pitch count up over his subsequent few starts as he looks to build up to a standard starter's workload. Hicks' next outing is tentatively scheduled to come at home against the Mets early next week.

Hicks is scheduled to start Thursday's game against the Marlins, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Hicks was previously penciled in to start Tuesday's contest but was instead pushed back by two days. The 25-year-old threw 35 pitches over two innings during his last outing Sunday in Milwaukee and is expected to be limited to about 45 pitches in his first start of the season.

Hicks won't start Tuesday's game against the Marlins, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Hicks was initially slated to make his first start of the season Tuesday in Miami, but he'll instead be available out of the bullpen against the Brewers on Saturday and Sunday. Adam Wainwright will now start Tuesday's series opener against Miami, while manager Oliver Marmol said that he expects Hicks to start late in the series against the Marlins or during the team's series against Cincinnati next weekend.

Manager Oliver Marmol said Hicks is tentatively lined up to make his first start of the season Tuesday against the Marlins in Miami, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Hicks initially appeared poised to pick up two turns through the rotation this week, but postponements of Monday's game against Pittsburgh and Wednesday's game against Kansas City will result in the 25-year-old having to wait a little longer for his first MLB start. Marmol noted that Hicks will be available in relief for the team's four-game series in Milwaukee that begins Thursday, so it's not a lock that the right-hander will be ready to take the hill in Miami if he's pressed into extended innings out of the bullpen against the Brewers. Whenever Hicks does make his first start, he's expected to be capped at around 45 pitches before steadily increasing his pitch count in his subsequent outings.

Hicks (1-0) pitched two shutout innings, allowing a walk and striking out two to earn the win Tuesday versus the Royals.

Hicks is expected to enter the rotation officially during this weekend's series versus the Brewers. He was called on in relief Tuesday to maintain his pitching schedule, and he delivered quality innings while throwing 18 of his 27 pitches for strikes. The hard-throwing right-hander has worked as a reliever in his three previous major-league seasons, and it may take him a few turns through the rotation to build up to a starter's workload.

Hicks is scheduled to make his first start of the season Saturday against the Brewers in Milwaukee, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

Hicks had been on track to start Tuesday's game against the Royals, but the postponement of Monday's contest against the Pirates due to inclement weather in St. Louis prompted the Cardinals to reshuffle their pitching schedule. While previous reports suggested that Hicks would start Sunday's series finale in Milwaukee, he'll instead take the hill Saturday so the Cardinals won't have to add a temporary sixth starter to the mix. Dakota Hudson will stay on turn to start Sunday, assuming his he escapes his first start Tuesday unscathed. Hicks will be available out of the bullpen for that game, but he likely won't be in store for an extended appearance while he preps for his start later in the week. Manager Oliver Marmol suggested that Hicks will be capped at around 45 pitches in that start, and the Cardinals aren't preparing for him to cover more than four innings in any outing until May.

Hicks won't make his first career MLB start until Sunday's game in Milwaukee as a result of the Cardinals' game Monday against the Pirates being postponed due to inclement weather in St. Louis, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

The Cardinals were initially scheduled to play seven games this week, but because of the rainout, the team will be able to reorder its pitching schedule for what will now be a six-game week. According to Goold, Hicks will be available out of the bullpen for Tuesday's game against the Royals if needed before beginning to prepare for Sunday's start. According to Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat, the Cardinals plan to cap Hicks at around 45 pitches in his first start, and the right-hander is expected to be built up slowly from there. Manager Oliver Marmol suggested Monday that the Cardinals will be content if Hicks is able to reach four innings in his starts by the beginning of May, so the 25-year-old could struggle to work deep enough in his initial starts to factor into a decision.

Hicks is expected to throw around 45 pitches in his start Tuesday against the Royals, and he may not even reach that mark, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

The Cardinals made the surprising decision to convert Hicks to a starting role this spring, sticking to that commitment despite suggestions from early in March that the shortened spring training may scrap those plans. Hicks does have 10 career relief outings of at least two innings, so he's no stranger to slightly extended appearances, but he's never gotten anywhere close to a true starter's workload at the big-league level. He won't get there Tuesday, either, which will make it all but impossible for him to secure a win.

Hicks will serve as the Cardinals' fifth starter to begin the regular season, John Denton of MLB.com reports.

The Cardinals said at the end of March that Hicks would serve as a reliever in 2022 with a potential for save chances, but the club will reverse course with Jack Flaherty (shoulder) on the injured list to begin the regular season. The right-hander hasn't yet started at the major-league level, and he posted a 5.40 ERA and 1.50 WHIP in 10 innings across 10 relief appearances last year.

Hicks will work as a reliever rather than a starter this season and could receive save chances with the Cardinals exploring the idea of having a bullpen free of defined roles, Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

A fluid bullpen could allow Hicks, Giovanny Gallegos, Genesis Cabrera and Ryan Helsley to all receive save opportunities this season. Hicks worked as the closer in 2019 and was expected to ramp up to be a starter this season after sitting out most of the past two years with elbow issues, but the quick start to the season post-lockout will result in him instead working in relief. The flame-throwing righty could also be used over multiple innings, as manager Oliver Marmol said, "our hope is that he can be more than a one-inning guy."

Hicks signed a one-year, $937,500 contract with the Cardinals on Tuesday, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Hicks avoided arbitration with this signing. The flamethrowing right-hander is capped at 50 pitches in spring games as he stretches out to serve as a starter this season, a role he hasn't played at the major-league level yet. He posted a 5.40 ERA, 1.50 WHIP, 10:10 K:BB and three holds in 10 innings as a reliever last season, but he last pitched in a regular-season game in May after dealing with a minor tear in his elbow. Hicks is expected to serve in some role with the Cardinals from the start of the season, though he may need to work in a tandem-pitching capacity until he's fully stretched out.

Cardinals manager Oliver Marmol said Tuesday that he hopes for Hicks (elbow) to build up in the neighborhood of 50 pitches during spring training, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

At least for the time being, the Cardinals are allowing Hicks to compete for a starting role with the big club, but Marmol's comments imply that the right-hander will likely have to be deployed as more of an opener or piggyback option to begin the season if he does in fact crack the Opening Day rotation. Though Hicks reported to camp healthy, the Cardinals are easing him along slowly after recurring elbow trouble limited him to just 13 appearances between the majors and minors in 2021. According to John Denton of MLB.com, Hicks revealed Tuesday that he was dealing with a "minor tear" in his elbow, though he healed quickly following a few platelet-rich plasma injections and was able to pitch at the Arizona Fall League, where his fastball topped out at 100 miles per hour. In an effort to avoid further stress on his arm, Hicks said he believes the 96-to-98-mph range may be the sweet spot for his velocity moving forward, especially if he wants to work as a starter. If the Cardinals decide to scrap the starting ex

General manager John Mozeliak said that getting Hicks stretched out prior to Opening Day will be a challenge, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Rather than a build up of at least six weeks, players will be limited to just under a month between reporting to spring training and the first pitch of the regular season in 2022. As a result, that could jeopardize the Cardinals' plans to use Hicks in the rotation rather than in a bullpen role. Mozeliak did note that he had to observe where Hicks stands from an arm strength and conditioning perspective, so his exact role remains unclear for now.

Hicks (elbow) was reinstated from the 60-day injured list Monday, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Hicks missed most of the 2021 campaign due to a right elbow injury, and he concluded a rehab assignment at the Arizona Fall League on Sunday. The righty is expected to compete for a major-league rotation spot during spring training in 2022, and he appears to be in line for a relatively normal offseason following his activation.

Hicks (elbow) concluded his rehab stint at the Arizona Fall League on Sunday and is expected to compete for a spot in the big-league rotation during spring training, Katie Woo of The Athletic reports.

Hicks had served as a starter for most of his minor-league career, but because of his blazing fastball to go along with lesser-developed secondary offerings, the Cardinals viewed him as a better fit out of the bullpen upon summoning him to the majors in 2018. However, after Hicks missed most of 2019 and 2020 while recovering from Tommy John surgery and then experienced inflammation in his elbow last spring that prevented him from pitching at the big-league level in 2021, the Cardinals may be rethinking his role. While Hicks' lack of innings over the last three seasons mean he'll almost certainly be under some sort of workload restriction if he indeed enters 2022 as a starter, the move out of the bullpen could actually help the 25-year-old from a durability standpoint. Without having to routinely pitch at extreme velocities in relief and adjusting his mechanics as he prepares for starting duty, Hicks could have a better chance at avoiding the recurring elbow problems that have stalled his career.

Hicks (elbow) will continue his rehab work in the Arizona Fall League at the end of the regular season and won't join the Cardinals for any potential postseason action, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Hicks began a rehab stint with Triple-A Memphis on Saturday, but the Cardinals don't plan to rush him back from the four-plus month absence for a potential playoff run. The 25-year-old has been sidelined since the start of May with right elbow inflammation and should be ready for spring training, assuming he avoids any setbacks while pitching in the fall league.

Hicks (elbow) began a rehab assignment with Triple-A Memphis on Saturday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Hicks has been out since the start of May with elbow inflammation. He doesn't appear to have time to make it back before the end of the regular season, and reports indicate he'll be sent to the Arizona Fall League, which seemingly means he isn't being considered for a spot on the team's playoff roster.

The Cardinals announced Wednesday that Hicks (elbow) will be one of the players the organization sends to the Arizona Fall League, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

After sitting out the entire 2020 campaign following his July 2019 Tommy John procedure, Hicks was expected to hold down a key role in the St. Louis bullpen in 2021. However, he made just 10 appearances before being shut down in May with right elbow inflammation, and his slow recovery from the injury has prompted the Cardinals to keep him on the shelf for the remainder of the season. Hicks has at least resumed throwing since being shut down in May, and he looks like he'll be ready to prove his health by the time the AFL begins. With a strong showing in Arizona, Hicks should put himself in position to open 2022 with the big club.

Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak said Sunday that he doesn't expect Hicks (elbow) to return from the 60-day injured list before the end of the season, but the right-hander could be cleared to pick up innings during winter ball, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Hicks took an important step forward last week in his recovery from the right elbow injury that has kept him on the shelf since the beginning of May, as he was cleared to throw off a mound for the first time in more than four and a half months. Though Hicks finally looks to be progressing after his rehab program stalled out for much of the summer, the Cardinals aren't counting him on providing a late-season boost to the bullpen. If Hicks is able to test out his arm over the winter and avoids any further setbacks, he should head into spring training with few restrictions, if any.

Hicks (elbow) threw a bullpen session Monday, his first time doing so since suffering his injury May 1, the team's official site reports.

Hicks has been playing catch regularly in the field for some time, but the return to the mound is naturally a significant step in his recovery. The Cardinals continue to hold out hope they'll be able to get Hicks some game action -- be it at the major- or minor-league level -- before the end of the season, but they will continue to operate with considerable caution given the hard-throwing right-hander's extensive injury history.

Hicks (elbow) hasn't yet resumed mound work and may not return to the Cardinals in 2021, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Manager Mike Shildt said that Hicks is "significantly" behind Jack Flaherty (oblique) in his recovery process, and Flaherty threw his first bullpen session Friday. Shildt said that it's "hard to say" whether the right-hander will pitch again for the Cardinals this season. Hicks has been sidelined since the beginning of May due to right elbow inflammation.

Manager Mike Shildt said Saturday that Hicks (elbow) has resumed playing catch but remains a ways away from full participation in baseball activities, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Shildt wouldn't rule out the possibility of Hicks not returning this season, though he didn't necessarily hint at that being the most likely scenario either. The right-hander still has a long way to go until he's even able to throw off a mound, so for the time being, a mid-to-late August return seems to be a best-case scenario.

Hicks (elbow) will likely be out until at least August, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Hicks was placed on the 60-day injured list due to right elbow inflammation May 14, and he's still resting after he received an injection in his elbow in mid-May. Manager Mike Shildt called it a "best-case scenario" for the right-hander to return in August, but a better timetable for his return could be revealed once he resumes throwing.

Hicks received an injection in his elbow last week and is expected to rest for a month before beginning to build his arm strength back up, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Hicks won't be returning any time soon, as he landed on the 60-day injured list Friday, knocking him out until at least early July. Whether or not he's on track to return when first eligible is not yet clear.

Hicks (elbow) was transferred to the 60-day injured list Friday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

The move means Hicks can't be activated before the start of July, though it already seemed unlikely that he'd be back before that point after a second opinion on his inflamed right elbow called for a longer absence than expected Sunday. He'll vacate his spot on the 40-man roster so the Cardinals can select Max Moroff's contract.

Cardinals general manager John Mozeliak said Sunday that Hicks is now expected to be sidelined at least six weeks after he recently received a second opinion on his inflamed right elbow, Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

When Hicks was placed on the IL on May 4, the Cardinals initially projected him to miss up to a month, but the right-hander's recovery timeline has since been pushed back following his most recent checkup. Hicks is slated to receive an injection in his elbow this week to address the inflammation, and if the shot has the desired effect, he'll begin a rehab program soon thereafter. Mozeliak noted that the six-week timeline is an estimate for when Hicks will resume baseball activities, so the 24-year-old will almost certainly require additional time beyond that to build up before the Cardinals are ready to activate him. With that in mind, Hicks could face an uphill battle to make it back from the IL before the All-Star break.

Hicks' elbow inflammation is expected to keep him out for at least four weeks, Rob Rains of StLSportsPage.com reports.

Hicks left his outing Saturday against the Pirates with the injury. His removal was originally called precautionary, but he'll now be out until at least early June. Hicks had only thrown 10 innings since returning from Tommy John surgery, a procedure he underwent back in June of 2019, so the Cardinals have every reason to be cautious with the young fireballer. He had yet to work his way into a high-leverage role, so his absence won't significantly change the team's bullpen hierarchy.

The Cardinals placed Hicks (elbow) on the 10-day injured list Tuesday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

St. Louis is officially classifying Hicks' injury as "right elbow inflammation," which suggests that the MRI he underwent Monday didn't reveal a strain or any structural damage to his forearm. Hicks is eligible to come off the IL on May 12, but he'll likely need to receive clearance to resume throwing within the next few days in order to return to the active roster in the minimum amount of time.

Hicks is set to receive further imaging Monday on his sore right forearm, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

The Cardinals labeled Hicks' removal from his appearance in Saturday's game against the Pirates as precautionary, but that doesn't mean he'll avoid a trip to the injured list. St. Louis should gain more clarity on the extent of Hicks' injury Monday. Hicks has served as a setup man in front of closer Alex Reyes this season, posting a 5.40 ERA, 1.50 WHIP and 10:10 K:BB in 10 innings.

Hicks was removed from Saturday's game versus the Pirates as a precaution due to right forearm tightness, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

The 24-year-old is coming off Tommy John surgery in June of 2019, so it's not much of a surprise to see the Cardinals quickly pulling the young pitcher. Hicks' removal was labeled a precaution, though that doesn't necessarily mean he won't be forced to miss any time. The right-hander should be considered day-to-day until the team updates his status.

Hicks was removed from Saturday's game against the Pirates with an apparent right arm injury, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

The 24-year-old recorded two outs during the seventh inning before being seen flexing his arm after a pitch and subsequently leaving with the athletic trainer. The specifics of the injury remain unclear, and the Cardinals are likely to remain cautious with Hicks since he's only a handful of games into his return from Tommy John surgery in June 2019.

Hicks recorded his third hold in an extra-inning win over the Phillies on Thursday, firing a scoreless sixth inning during which he issued a walk and recording two strikeouts.

Manager Mike Shildt decided to afford Hicks his first action since Sunday by inserting him into the game immediately after the Cardinals had taken a 3-1 lead in the home half of the fifth inning. Hicks experienced trademark issues with his location, getting just nine of 19 pitches into the strike zone but still coming away with his third hold. At present, an ascension to the closer's role he filled in 2019 before getting injured doesn't look to be anywhere in the cards for Hicks, as he still appears to be rounding back into shape after sitting out 2020 and Alex Reyes is currently perfect over six save chances while holding down ninth-inning duties.

Hicks made his first ninth-inning appearance of the season in Friday's win over the Reds, allowing three earned runs on one hit and two walks over one-third of an inning.

The hard-throwing right-hander got only six of 16 pitches into the strike zone and laid the foundation for a save chance for Alex Reyes with his performance. The opportunity to work the ninth inning -- albeit in what was a non-save scenario -- was presumably manager Mike Shildt's way of inching Hicks toward eventually returning to a full-time closer's role, but in that regard, the attempt was far from successful. Hicks has notably had some issues with control in recent appearances, now having issued multiple walks in three of his last four trips to the mound.

Hicks opened the seventh inning of Sunday's loss to the Brewers and fired 1.1 scoreless innings during which he allowed no hits, issued two walks, uncorked a wild pitch and recorded two strikeouts.

With Hicks having last logged an appearance Wednesday, manager Mike Shildt saw an opportunity to get his young reliever some low-leverage work with the Cardinals down 7-3 at the time. Hicks had some trouble with location as his numbers indicate but he was otherwise able to turn in a second straight workload of more than 20 pitches without setbacks. The fireballer has yet to be scored on this season through four appearances, and he could soon graduate to higher-leverage assignments if matters continue to unfold smoothly for him.

Hicks was credited with his first hold in a win over the Marlins on Monday, firing a perfect seventh inning during which he recorded a strikeout.

So far, so good for Hicks in his comeback campaign, as he's fired a pair of perfect frames over his first two appearances, neither which has come in a save situation. The hard-throwing Hicks also has only one strikeout through six batters faced, but the fact he's notched six total outs on 26 pitches speaks to the fact his location already seems to be back to form after missing all of last season.

Hicks fired a perfect seventh inning in a loss to the Reds on Saturday. He did not record a strikeout.

Hicks required just 13 pitches to get his three outs, an encouraging display of efficiency in his first taste of regular-season game action since June 2019. Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports no ball hit off Hicks was harder than 72 mph, and adds that the right-hander's four-seamer and sinker averaged 97.5 mph and 98.1 mph, respectively, during his one inning.

Hicks will be eased into game action to begin the 2021 season, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Hicks opted out of the 2020 season amid the COVID-19 pandemic, and he hasn't pitched in a game since June of 2019 after he underwent Tommy John surgery. While the right-hander is expected to take over as the Cardinals' primary closer at some point in 2021, manager Mike Shildt said that Alex Reyes should be the favorite to work in the eighth and ninth innings early in the year while Hicks is eased into action. Hicks converted on 14 of his 15 save chances and posted a 3.14 ERA and 0.94 WHIP in 28.2 innings during the 2019 campaign.

Hicks was credited with his first save since June 13, 2019 in a Grapefruit League win over the Mets on Wednesday, with his velocity topping out at 100.4 mph, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Hicks worked around a leadoff walk to cruise through the next three batters in the ninth inning, lowering his spring ERA to 3.38 through four appearances. The hard-throwing right-hander has now worked an inning in back-to-back outings, but president of baseball operations John Mozeliak confirmed Wednesday the team wants "to be smart about it" with respect to how quickly Hicks is thrown back into high-leverage situations once the regular season begins.

Hicks allowed an unearned run on two walks and a hit batsman over two-thirds of an inning in a Grapefruit League tie with the Astros on Wednesday.

Making his second appearance of spring after a 22-pitch battle of wills against the Mets' Luis Guillorme encompassed the first Sunday, Hicks onceagain put together a rather unusual performance. The flamethrowing right-hander worked himself into trouble with an error on a comebacker and also experienced some notable control issues, but manager Mike Shildt kept things in perspective when evaluating what was only Hicks' second taste of game action in 21 months. "I think it's just getting back into competition in over a year," manager Mike Shildt said. "I thought it was a fantastic outing. Ton of soft contact, around the plate again. I was really, really, really pleased with Jordan."

Hicks faced only the Mets' Lucas Guillorme in the right-hander's Grapefruit League debut Sunday, engaging in a 22-pitch sequence that culminated in a walk.

Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports the at-bat took 12 minutes and included six pitches of over 100 mph. It was Hicks' first taste of official game action since June 22, 2019, and while the original plan had been to deploy him for one inning Sunday, he was removed from the contest following the walk due to his pitch count.

Hicks, who has been impressive in live batting practices and a "B" game appearance, will next progress to making his Grapefruit League debut at a yet-to-be-determined date, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Manager Mike Shildt confirmed the right-hander's imminent spring debut Friday, and Silver notes it could unfold this weekend against either the Mets or Marlins. The eventual appearance will mark Hicks' first in official game action since June 22, 2019 following Tommy John surgery that summer and a subsequent 2020 opt-out.

Hicks recorded a clean inning on 11 pitches during a "B" game against the Nationals on Wednesday, his first game action of any kind since June 2019, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports. "I don't think it would have mattered what lens you're looking [through]," said manager Mike Shildt. "It was pretty darn good."

The right-hander recorded a strikeout while also inducing a pair of groundouts. Hicks, highly regarded for his ability to consistently hit triple digits on the radar gun when healthy, was also recorded at 102 mph in a live batting practice session Wednesday, further corroborating the fitness of his surgically repaired elbow. Assuming he remains free of any setbacks in coming days, Hicks' next step will be his Grapefruit League debut.

Hicks, who's already thrown a pair of live batting practice sessions, is scheduled to pitch in a "B" game Wednesday, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports. "The good news is, Jordan is in a really good place, on track for the season," manager Mike Shildt said. "But we're just taking it rightfully slow and building up the intensity to what that looks like for competition."

The right-hander has been brought along carefully this spring after last pitching in June 2019, but with Hicks passing every test put in front of him thus far, he appears to be on the cusp of game action. If all checks out well after Wednesday's outing, Hicks would likely be deemed ready for his Grapefruit League debut.

Hicks was thoroughly impressive facing live hitters for the first time in spring training Monday, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports.

Hicks' session was the talk of the morning portion of spring camp Monday prior to the Cardinals' Grapefruit League contest against the Marlins, with manager Mike Shildt describing the performance as "monumental" and fellow reliever Andrew Miller noting it's always an eye-opening experience to watch his bullpen mate throw, even after not facing big-league bats for nearly two years. Hicks last saw game action in June 2019 due to Tommy John surgery and his opt-out of the 2020 campaign as a high-risk player, and he reported getting through his first session without any setbacks. Shildt noted Monday that Hicks will likely work at least one more sessions against his own teammates before making his Grapefruit League debut, emphasizing "[he's] close, for sure".

Hicks was impressive in his first throwing session of spring Thursday, Zachary Silver of MLB.com reports. "All the feedback from the pitching coaches, [and from] Jordan, was favorable," manager Mike Shildt said. "Ball was coming out really clean, had life to it. We'll see how he recovers today, but a very positive first day for Jordan Hicks, no question about it."

The right-hander will have plenty of eyes on him as he looks to return to full strength following Tommy John surgery. Hicks last faced bats in live action on June 22, 2019, so he'll presumably have plenty of rust to knock off over the next several weeks. Even though he should get plenty of reps in spring camp and Grapefruit League action, he could start the season sharing closing duties with several other experienced ninth-inning options in the relief corps until he's deemed back to 100 percent.

Hicks, who missed the 2020 season while completing his recovery from Tommy John surgery and opting out for precautionary health reasons, is expected to eventually return to full-time closing duties, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Goold answers a reader question about whether the hard-throwing right-hander has a chance to be named the official closer by Opening Day by emphasizing there are likely to be a couple of moving parts to the equation. How Hicks looks after last pitching in a major-league game June 22, 2019 will naturally be one of the major factors at play, as well as how others capable of handling ninth-inning work such as Andrew Miller and Giovanny Gallegos perform in exhibition play. Goold adds it's his belief the Cardinals will unsurprisingly err on the side of caution with Hicks and allow him to reacclimate at his own pace, as opposed to applying any indirect pressure by officially labeling him as the closer early in camp.

Hicks signed a one-year, $862,500 contract with the Cardinals on Friday, avoiding arbitration, Jon Heyman of MLB Network reports.

Hicks gets a raise in his first year of arbitration eligibility despite the fact that he didn't play at all in 2020. He was already set to miss a portion of the season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, but he wound up electing to opt out of the entire campaign, as his status as a Type 1 diabetic meant that playing during a pandemic would be unwise. He's expected to enter the upcoming season fully healthy and retains the huge potential that comes with his record-setting heat, but his injury history makes him something of a risk.

Hicks (elbow/opt out) is expected to enter spring training on a normal throwing schedule, Brendan Schaeffer of KMOV News reports.

The 24-year-old decided to opt out of the 2020 campaign due to some lingering inflammation from his 2019 Tommy John Surgery and the fact he's a Type 1 diabetic, but he's on track to return next season. Hicks had a 3.14 ERA, 0.94 WHIP and 31:11 K:BB over 28.2 innings while going 14-for-15 in save opportunities during 2019, so he's the presumed favorite for the closer's role entering spring training.

The Cardinals placed Hicks (elbow) on the restricted list last week after he informed the team that he was opting out of the 2020 season.

The transaction removes Hicks from the Cardinals' 40-man roster, giving the team some more flexibility before it begins its season July 24. Per Mark Saxon of The Athletic, Hicks' choice to skip out on the 2020 season wasn't totally motivated by concerns about the health risks he may have faced pitching amid the COVID-19 pandemic as a Type 1 diabetic. Instead, the 23-year-old disclosed that he recently dealt with inflammation during his throwing program as he worked back from his June 2019 Tommy John procedure. The extra time off to rest should allow Hicks to report at full health for 2021 spring training, at which point he could re-emerge as the Cardinals' top closing candidate.

Hicks (elbow) announced his decision to opt out of the upcoming season Monday, Jeff Jones of the Belleville News-Democrat reports.

Hicks was already expected to miss at least a bit of time as he works his way back from Tommy John surgery, a procedure he underwent in June of 2019. Hicks has type 1 diabetes, putting him in a high-risk group regarding COVID-19. He'll take the safe route rather than risking his health for what ultimately would have been just a small handful of innings in the shortened season. Giovanny Gallegos is the presumed next man up in the Cardinals' bullpen, but he's currently stuck in Mexico due to pandemic-related travel issues, leaving either Ryan Helsley or Carlos Martinez as the primary candidates for early-season saves in St. Louis.

Hicks (elbow) threw a bullpen session in the visitors' dugout at Busch Stadium on Saturday, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

Manager Mike Shildt described Hicks as "feeling good" overall, but he didn't yet have any direct feedback on Saturday's session when he met with reporters after summer camp workouts concluded for the day. Nevertheless, any news of Hicks continuing on a regular throwing routine is certainly welcome and support the notion he'll have a chance to possibly make an impact in the second half of the truncated 60-game regular season.

Hicks (elbow) will open the season on the injured list, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

The news isn't a big surprise, as Hicks is still just barely over 12 months removed from Tommy John surgery, a procedure he underwent in late June of 2019. The Cardinals do expect him to contribute at some point this season, though exactly when remains to be seen. It's also not clear whether or not he'll immediately regain his closer role when he eventually returns or if he'll have to win it back from presumptive favorite Giovanny Gallegos.

Hicks (elbow) will be monitored especially closely with respect to COVID-19 protocol when the regular season begins due to the fact he's a Type 1 diabetic, Anne Rogers of MLB.com reports.

Naturally, Hicks' surgically repaired elbow will also get plenty of attention, and president of baseball operations John Mozeliak confirms the hard-throwing reliever will be eased back into game action once the regular season begins. Hicks has already been throwing from a mound and has also expressed his intent to play despite the fact he's at higher risk in the current COVID environment. "From the Tommy John perspective, he's had so far a very positive rehab," Mozeliak said. "In terms of expectations, I don't think it's in anybody's interest to lay that out today, but I am hopeful that he does participate in this year's season."

Hicks (elbow) would likely be part of a closing committee as opposed to having sole possession of the ninth-inning job for much, if not all, of a shortened 2020 season, Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Hummel is answering a reader question about how heavy Hicks' workload would be right from the start, with any 2020 season now likely to begin right around the point where Hicks might be healthy enough to pitch. The hard-throwing right-hander will be taking the mound for the first time since June 2019 when he does return, so Hummel's assessment of shared responsibility seems to be supported by logic, especially when considering expanded rosters and a season not likely to exceed 60 games.

Hicks (elbow), who could return from Tommy John surgery shortly after the start of the proposed abbreviated regular season, may play an integral relief role according to president of baseball operations John Mozeliak, Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports. "Given the circumstances of the season, the likelihood of his being able to contribute are a lot different than had it been a normal year," Mozeliak said. "There is some optimism that if we do have a season, he'll have some way of being a key

Mozeliak relays Hicks continues engaging in regular bullpen sessions at his home in Houston, usually throwing 30 pitches per outing in an effort to mirror his approximate maximum pitch count in an actual game setting. Tuesday, Hicks worked up to 40 total pitches by throwing two blocks of 20 each, and if the current early-July timeline for Opening Day comes to pass, the 23-year-old will be close to 13 full months removed from his June 2019 Tommy John procedure. However, Mozeliak notes the Cardinals would also be particularly cautious with the hard-throwing right-hander due to his Type A diabetes, as the condition could potentially make him more at risk for serious COVID-19-related complications.

President of baseball operations John Mozeliak said Thursday that Hicks (elbow) has advanced to throwing 30-pitch bullpen sessions of "moderate intensity" in recent weeks, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Despite MLB's ongoing shutdown, Hicks' rehab program doesn't seem to have slowed down considerably, as Mozeliak reiterated that the right-hander remains on pace to be ready for game action at some point around the middle of the summer. Goold speculates that Hicks may be cleared to face hitters by the time teams are allowed to resume training, at which point a more precise timeline for his return from the injured list could be established.

Hicks (elbow) remains on track to be healthy by some point in July, but his timeline for a return could be affected by multiple factors, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

To begin with, there would naturally have to be a season already underway by mid-summer for Hicks to return to. However, beyond that obvious prerequisite, the hard-throwing right-hander will also need ongoing access to hitters to facilitate the on-field portion of his rehabilitation program. How that would come about is also up in the air, considering the minor-league season could be wiped out entirely this year. Such a development would likely lead to significantly expanded major-league rosters that would include a healthy helping of minor-league players, or perhaps a convening of such players in some other setting that Hicks could gain access to. Therefore, depending on the timing of a re-start of on-field activity, Hicks may realistically not be prepared to pitch in a regular-season game until later in the summer or early fall.

Hicks (elbow) continues playing catch and has continued visiting the Cardinals' spring training facility for rehab-related work when possible, Rick Hummel of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Hicks has been on a throwing program since January as he makes a return from UCL surgery. It's unclear what level of access Hicks still has to the team's Jupiter facility on a day-to-day basis, but shortly after spring training was suspended, he'd expressed an intention to be a frequent visitor as long as it was available. The delayed start to the 2020 campaign will help wipe out a substantial amount of missed regular-season time for Hicks, who could be ready to return sometime in July.

Hicks (elbow) was placed on the 60-day injured list Wednesday.

Hicks was moved to the injured list in order to create a roster spot for Brad Miller, who was signed by St. Louis on Wednesday. The 23-year-old was already eyeing a midseason return from undergoing Tommy John surgery in late June of 2019. It is possible that the Cardinals will attempt to ease Hicks back from his long absence in a setup role rather than resuming immediate closing duties. Giovanny Gallegos is expected to begin the season as the closer with the recent news that Carlos Martinez will be competing for a spot in the starting rotation.

Hicks (elbow), who resumed a throwing program earlier this month, is aiming for a return to the Cardinals at some point in the middle of the season, Derrick Goold of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch reports.

Though pitchers who undergo Tommy John surgery typically require 12-to-18 months of rehab time, Hicks' status as a relief pitcher likely means that he won't need the full length of the recovery timeline to build up his arm. Given that he underwent the elbow procedure in late June of 2019, Hicks could realistically have a shot at returning around the All-Star break, assuming he endures no snags in the rehab process. Hicks had served as St. Louis' closer prior to damaging his UCL, but the Cardinals could be more inclined to bring him back in a setup role this season once he's reinstated from the injured list.

Hicks (elbow) began a throwing program Jan. 6 and is progressing well in his recovery from Tommy John surgery, Derek Shore of TheCardinalNation.com reports.

Hicks underwent Tommy John surgery in late June, so the beginning of a throwing program is a major step in his recovery. The 23-year-old will continue building up his arm strength in the coming months, with a return to throwing off the mound being his next major recovery benchmark. Hicks could make a return at some point this year, but it likely would only be for the tail end of the season.

Hicks (elbow) was moved to the 40-man roster Friday.

Hicks underwent Tommy John surgery in July, so while he's expected to miss most if not all of the 2020 campaign, the club will move him back to the 40-man roster for now.