Reliever Liam Hendriks hasn't pitched since June 9, 2023, as he's been recovering from Tommy John surgery. However, he's hoping to make his return this year for the Boston Red Sox, who can use all the bullpen help they can get.
The bullpen was a big weak point for this team in the second half of last year, but with Hendriks' return and the signing of Aroldis Chapman, the Sox are hoping to get improved production out of their relievers this year.
Hendriks certainly seems confident in spring training. After a strikeout in a spring training game against the Rays, Hendriks emphatically pumped his fist and screamed. He later recognized that the celebration might have been a little excessive, but it was nonetheless entertaining and exciting for Sox fans.
Even if Hendriks' performance has dipped since then, he still seems confident in the Sox in 2025. He recently announced on a NESN broadcast that if the Red Sox win the World Series, he'll buy a new duck boat. He followed up saying, "I don't think it will fit in my parking spot in Beacon Hill, though."
Red Sox fans will love Liam Hendriks' energy at Fenway Park when he bounces back from rough spring
Liam Hendriks dropping f-bombs that could be heard in Massachusetts.
— Tyler Milliken (@tylermilliken_) February 26, 2025
🎥: @alexspeier https://t.co/vJ5WLWr4YP pic.twitter.com/eqvW8SQX0u
Hendriks' role on the team is still unclear. Although his greatest success has come as a closer, his injury history and poor spring training performance mean he's not the first choice for that spot. The aforementioned Chapman, like Hendriks, is a veteran with plenty of experience and a substantial pedigree, and it was recently reported he's the likely favorite for the closer role. Last year with the Pirates, he struck out hitters at an elite clip but also struggled to limit walks, issuing 39 to the 265 batters he faced. Chapman is another pitcher hoping to regain former glory in 2025.
Finally, Garrett Whitlock could also step in to fill Kenley Jansen's shoes. Though the 28 year-old has struggled to stay healthy, he's been very effective when he has pitched. He's a younger option than Hendriks and Chapman who's under control for far longer, so it might make sense for the Sox to give him a shot.
Even if Hendriks doesn't have a clear part to play, it's great to see his competitive nature and the confidence he has in the team. Hopefully he can rebound after a difficult spring and contribute meaningfully to the Sox' bullpen.