Struggling Cubs veteran Kyle Hendricks understands he's running low on chances to remain in starting rotation

(670 The Score) One of the most revered pitchers in recent Cubs history may be nearing the end of his run in the starting rotation.

Veteran right-hander Kyle Hendricks’ struggles continued in a 6-3 loss to the Marlins on Sunday at Wrigley Field, where he suffered the loss while allowing four runs in four innings. Hendricks looked sharp for the first three innings before Miami ambushed first-pitch fastballs while scoring three runs in the fourth inning.

Hendricks now owns a 12.00 ERA and 2.10 WHIP in five starts this season.

“He limited the hard contact for the most part, but they did string together a good rally,” Cubs manager Craig Counsell said. “We were still looking at four runs on the board after four innings.”

Hendricks allowed six hits and struck out five while walking none.

"I guess you have to take the positives out of it,” Hendricks said. “I got beat by five hitters in a row with mostly fastballs. I did execute a lot better and was mentally more aggressive. I did put us in a bad spot. We had to win that game. I do have to concentrate on the positives – the mental approach I took out there was a lot better.”

Despite his struggles, Hendricks will likely get another opportunity to take the mound in the next time through the rotation, in part because ace Justin Steele remains sidelined by a hamstring injury. But Steele is taking important steps forward in his rehab and recovery, as he’s headed to the team’s headquarters in Mesa, Arizona for work at extended spring training.

When Steele returns, that could mean Hendricks is out of the rotation.

"There were positive innings where Kyle took control, but we need better results frankly,” Counsell said. “With the stretch coming up with no off days, we are absolutely going to need more innings out of the starters. We have to continue to put our heads together and figure out what is the best way to get Kyle locked in. We are going to continue that discussion.”

With Steele nearing a return and youngsters like right-hander Ben Brown and right-hander Hayden Wesneski making strong contributions lately, Hendricks knows he won’t get many more chances to stay in the rotation.

"To tell you the truth, I would just like to be back out there tomorrow pitching,” Hendricks said. “I just feel like getting more reps and getting past this as quickly as possible. But yes, it is just staying steady and going through the process and trusting it will come.”

Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine .