Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Kyle Hendricks (28) throws during the first inning of Game 3 of the Major League Baseball World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Friday, Oct. 28, in Chicago. Hendricks started his career with short-season Class A ball in Spokane in 2011. (AP Photo/Nam Y. Huh)

Five baseball seasons ago, Kyle Hendricks was playing his first professional season with the Spokane Indians, appearing in 20 games, all in relief.

Wednesday night he starts on the mound for the Chicago Cubs in the deciding game of the World Series, hoping to give that franchise its first championship since 1908.

He’s come a long way since his 2011 season in Spokane, in which he appeared in 20 games, pitching 32 2/3 innings with a 2-2 record and an ERA of 1.93. He gave up 20 hits and four walks while striking out 36.

Now after the Cubs beat the Indians Tuesday night 9-3 to force Game 7, Hendricks is going to face Cleveland Indians ace Corey Kluber, who beat the Cubs in Games 1 and 4.

“This is the ultimate dream,” Hendricks said. “When you’re out in your backyard as a kid, playing Little League at the field with your friends, this is the moment you dream about: Game 7, 3-2, two outs, something like that, bottom of the ninth. But it’s always Game 7 of the World Series.”

The 28-year-old right-hander was the major leagues’ ERA leader this season at 2.13, pitching 190 innings, giving up 142 hits and 44 walks with 170 strikeouts/SR, AP. More here.

Question: Does anyone want the Indians to win tonight?