Breaking News: Liam Hendriks Signs $10 Million Deal with Red Sox
In a stunning move, the Boston Red Sox have secured the services of former Chicago White Sox closer Liam Hendriks. According to ESPN’s Buston Olney, the deal is worth a whopping $10 million over two years. However, there’s a catch – Hendriks will begin the 2024 season on the Injured List due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery.
Hendriks, a two-time AL Reliever of the Year, endured a challenging 2023 season. Not only did he face the physical toll of the surgery, but he also battled stage 4 non-Hodgkin lymphoma, which was diagnosed in late 2022. Despite these setbacks, Hendriks made a triumphant return to the field on May 29, only to be sidelined once again with elbow inflammation. It was later revealed that he needed Tommy John surgery to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament.
While Hendriks won’t be able to contribute immediately, there is hope on the horizon. According to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo, the resilient pitcher is targeting a return to action around the trade deadline of this season. This news gives Red Sox fans something to look forward to as they eagerly await Hendriks’ comeback.
The details of Hendriks’ contract are also worth noting. After passing his physical, the Red Sox committed to guaranteeing him $10 million over the next two years. Additionally, there are performance bonuses that could sweeten the deal even further. It’s clear that the Red Sox see great potential in Hendriks and are willing to invest in his recovery and future success.
As the baseball world buzzes with excitement over this major signing, all eyes will be on Liam Hendriks as he works his way back to full strength. The Red Sox have made a bold move, and only time will tell if it pays off. Stay tuned for updates on Hendriks’ progress and his eventual return to the mound.
HENDRIKS’ STUNNING COMEBACK AND MULTI-MILLION DOLLAR DEAL WITH RED SOX
In a remarkable turn of events, Liam Hendriks has emerged as one of the most talked-about players in Major League Baseball. The star pitcher made five appearances with the White Sox in 2023, and despite a shaky start with a 5.40 ERA, he managed to secure 2 wins and 1 save. This impressive feat earned him the prestigious AL Comeback Player of the Year award, as well as the coveted Jimmy V Award.
But that’s not all. Hendriks’ previous season was nothing short of extraordinary. He showcased his incredible skills by compiling a remarkable 2.81 ERA, along with 85 strikeouts, 4 wins, and an impressive 37 saves. Unsurprisingly, these outstanding performances led to his third All-Star Game selection and solidified his status as one of the best relievers in MLB from 2019 to 2022.
The buzz surrounding Hendriks reached a fever pitch on February 19 when renowned sports reporter Olney reported that he had agreed to a jaw-dropping two-year, $10 million deal with none other than the Red Sox. However, this deal is not set in stone just yet, as it is pending a physical examination. If all goes well, Hendriks’ contract could potentially be worth a staggering $20 million, thanks to additional performance bonuses. Furthermore, there is even a mutual option for the 2026 season, adding another layer of excitement to this already thrilling deal.
It’s important to note that Hendriks’ signing with the Red Sox is a significant move for the team. As they embark on a careful rebuild, the addition of Hendriks marks only their third free agent signing this winter. The Red Sox have also secured the services of starter Lucas Giolito and reliever Cooper Criswell. With these strategic acquisitions, it’s clear that the Red Sox are determined to strengthen their roster and make a strong comeback in the upcoming season.
However, the team’s roster may still undergo changes before Opening Day. According to The Athletic’s Jen McCaffrey, the Red Sox are keeping their options open and may make more moves as the spring progresses. There are still talented free agents available, and the trade market for Jansen, another notable player, remains strong. This suggests that the Red Sox are not done making waves in the offseason, and fans can expect further excitement as the team finalizes its roster.
Speaking of Jansen, there has been much speculation about his future with the Red Sox. The team has been actively listening to trade offers for Jansen, especially considering their efforts to reduce salary. With Jansen earning a staggering $16 million in 2024, it seems inevitable that a trade involving him will occur sooner rather than later. If Jansen does indeed start the season as the Red Sox’s closer, it is highly likely that a trade will be revisited before the deadline. This would open up the opportunity for Hendriks to step into the coveted closer role once he completes his rehab assignments.
Even if a trade involving Jansen does not materialize, the prospect of Hendriks and Jansen forming a formidable duo at the back of the bullpen is truly exciting. Both players possess immense talent and would undoubtedly make a fearsome combination. Additionally, with current setup man Chris Martin’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, there is a possibility that the Red Sox’s bullpen could undergo further changes to accommodate Hendriks and Jansen.
In conclusion, Liam Hendriks’ remarkable comeback and multi-million dollar deal with the Red Sox have sent shockwaves throughout the baseball world. Fans eagerly await his debut with the team, and the potential for further roster changes only adds to the anticipation. With Hendriks’ exceptional skills and the Red Sox’s strategic moves, it’s safe to say that the upcoming season will be one filled with excitement and surprises.
According to the Source heavy.com