Cubs’ Hendricks to start Game 1 of NLDS against Nationals

Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks. (David Banks/AP)

CHICAGO — Kyle Hendricks will start the playoff opener for the defending World Series champion Chicago Cubs.

Manager Joe Maddon says the 27-year-old right-hander will start Game 1 of the NL Division Series against Washington on Friday.

Maddon also announced Wednesday that Jon Lester will pitch Game 2, with Jose Quintana and Jake Arrieta starting Games 3 and 4 at Wrigley Field.

Hendricks was 7-5 with a 3.03 ERA. He missed time in June and July with a finger injury but had a 2.19 ERA in 13 starts after the All-Star break.

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