Red Sox Sign All-Star Closer Liam Hendriks to Two-Year Deal
The Boston Red Sox have made a significant move in their bullpen, signing All-Star closer Liam Hendriks to a two-year contract, sources confirmed to ESPN.
The deal, reportedly worth $10 million, is a bet by the team that Liam Hendriks will bounce back from Tommy John surgery, with the potential for additional earnings through performance bonuses.
Source: MLB Network
Hendriks’ Road to Recovery and Return to Action
Hendriks, a 35-year-old veteran, has faced adversity both on and off the field. Battling stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma in 2022, he successfully completed treatment and returned to the mound in May 2023.
However, his comeback was short-lived as he was sidelined again with a torn ulnar collateral ligament. Despite these setbacks, Hendriks remains determined to return to peak form.
A Boost for Boston’s Bullpen
The addition of Hendriks brings a wealth of experience and skill to the Red Sox bullpen. With 476 games over 13 MLB seasons and three American League All-Star appearances.
Hendriks is known for his ability to close out games and strike out batters. His lively personality and leadership qualities make him a valuable asset to the team.
Looking Ahead: Hendriks’ Potential Impact and Boston’s Strategy
While Kenley Jansen is currently penciled in as the closer for the Red Sox, Hendriks could assume the role if he fully recovers from injury.
The team's signing of Hendriks is part of a broader strategy as they navigate a measured rebuild.
With a focus on developing young talent and bolstering the roster with experienced players like Hendriks, the Red Sox aim to return to contention in the near future.
How fast does Liam Hendricks throw?
While Liam Hendriks hasn't pitched in the MLB in 2024, they threw a total of 11,241 pitches tracked by the PITCHf/x system from 2011 to 2023.
This includes pitches thrown in both the MLB Regular Season and Spring Training. In 2023, Hendriks predominantly used their four-seam fastball, clocking in at 95 miles per hour, and their slider, averaging 87 miles per hour.
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