Alex Bregman will have a new teammate in Boston as a 13-year MLB veteran is set to make his debut for the Red Sox in the series opener against the White Sox. The veteran, who recently shared how excited he is for his first game with the team, is returning to action after barely playing in 2023 and 2024 due to health issues.
The teammate in question is Liam Hendriks, who admitted it feels a little strange to debut against his former team. “It’s exciting. I didn’t sleep too much last night,” Hendriks said to NESN, also adding that facing the White Sox gives him “an extra boost.”
Hendriks will be working out of the bullpen, looking to provide stability on the mound. His last Major League appearance was in 2023, when he managed just five games with the White Sox. Still, Hendriks brings a resume that makes him one of the more intriguing relief pitchers in the game.
Why was Liam Hendriks sidelined for almost two full seasons?
Hendriks underwent cancer treatment and started the 2023 season on the injured list. He later revealed in April that he had beaten the disease. Unfortunately, his comeback was cut short when he had to undergo Tommy John surgery to repair his elbow, ending his season.
FORT MYERS, FLORIDA – FEBRUARY 20: Liam Hendriks of the Boston Red Sox poses for a portrait at JetBlue Park at Fenway South on February 20, 2024 in Fort Myers, Florida. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
The Red Sox signed him on February 20, 2024, to a two-year, $10 million deal. He wasn’t able to pitch last season while recovering from surgery but spent time in the minors this year as part of his rehab assignment to prepare his arm.
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What can Hendriks bring to the Red Sox?
If healthy, Hendriks could be a major asset for Bregman and the Red Sox. He owns a 3.82 career ERA across more than 476 appearances and over 650 innings pitched. Before his setbacks, he had four straight seasons as a top-tier reliever, earning multiple All-Star nods and award nominations. His MLB journey has taken him through the Twins, Blue Jays, Royals, A’s, and White Sox since debuting in 2011.
