Red Sox sign veteran closer Liam Hendriks to two-year, $10 million deal
The three-time All-Star looks to make his second comeback after overcoming Tommy John surgery and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in less than two years.
The Red Sox signed veteran closer Liam Hendriks on Tuesday to a two-year, $10 million contract through the 2025 season, with a mutual option for 2026.
The three-time All-Star rounds out the 40-man roster, bolstering Boston’s arm talent. Hendriks played just five games last season before undergoing Tommy John surgery in August. The 35-year-old was just beginning his comeback after battling Stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma earlier in the year.
Hendriks, who was named 2023’s Comeback Player of the Year, owns a 3.82 ERA (276 ER/650.0 IP) with 116 saves and 727 strikeouts in 476 career games.
While typical Tommy John surgery recovery timelines suggest Hendriks wouldn’t pitch at all during the 2024 season, The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey reported that he is looking to return to the mound around the July 30 trade deadline.
“Hendriks has a target of getting back by the trade deadline,” McCaffrey wrote on X. “Said he’ll pitch in any role they need him whether it’s the fourth or seventh, seems to want to make it clear he’s not vying for (Kenley Jansen’s) or (Chris Martin’s) spot. He’ll be doing his rehab in Boston rather than Fort Myers.”
Hendriks is one of only a few notable pitchers the Red Sox signed during this offseason, joining Lucas Giolito and Michael Fulmer. Fulmer underwent UCL surgery in October, however, and is expected to miss the 2024 season.
To comment, please create a screen name in your profile
To comment, please verify your email address
Conversation
This discussion has ended. Please join elsewhere on Boston.com