May 31--Cubs starting pitcher Jason Hammel was pulled before starting the third inning against the Dodgers because of cramping in right hamstring.
Hammel suffered the injury during warm-ups prior to the start of the third. He tried to stretch his leg while on the ground behind the mound under the supervision of trainer P.J. Mainville.
Hammel threw a few warmup pitches, but manager Joe Maddon wasn't convinced that Hammel was healthy and signaled for the bullpen.
Hammel bounced the ball once before handing it to Maddon and walking off the mound under his own power.
Left-hander Travis Wood took over for Hammel, who pitched two scoreless innings.
Hammel struck out three while walking one and allowing one hit.
Hammel's next start is scheduled for Saturday against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Wrigley Field. The Cubs have used only five starting pitchers this season.
Hammel pitched most of the second half in 2015 with a sore left leg.
