Cubs starter Jason Hammel leaves with cramping in hand

CHICAGO (AP) Chicago Cubs right-hander Jason Hammel has exited his start against the Atlanta Braves in the sixth inning with cramping in his right hand.

Hammel had retired 11 straight batters before throwing two balls to Gordon Beckham to lead off the sixth. The trainer and manager Joe Maddon came out to check on Hammel, and after a few warm-up pitches he stayed in the game.

But after completing a four-pitch walk to Beckham, Maddon and the trainer returned to the mound and Hammel was replaced by Travis Wood on the humid night.

Nick Markakis hit a two-run homer in the first inning off Hammel, who left with the Cubs trailing 2-0.