Liam Hendriks' journey back to the mound has been anything but smooth. After battling a cancer diagnosis and undergoing Tommy John surgery, Hendriks has faced a series of setbacks.
Since the end of 2022, he's appeared in just 19 games. Now 37, Hendriks signed a minor league deal with the Twins this offseason, aiming to reignite his MLB career.
However, with Opening Day rosters taking shape, he's opted out of his contract, hitting the free agent market once more.
The White Sox, having recently lost swingman Mike Vasil for the season and releasing several depth arms, might be on the hunt for bullpen reinforcements-and Hendriks could be a familiar face worth considering.
Hendriks, who shined with the White Sox from 2021 to 2023 and earned All-Star honors in two full seasons, is known for his electrifying presence both on and off the mound. His energy could be a valuable asset in a young White Sox clubhouse.
While the back-end of the White Sox bullpen appears solid with newcomers like Seranthony Dominguez and the hard-throwing Grant Taylor, injuries have created opportunities. Even if Hendriks isn't at his peak, his experience and talent could still contribute significantly.
However, improving his control will be crucial, as evidenced by his 14% walk rate with the Twins this spring. His decision to opt out suggests he wasn't in the Twins' immediate plans, prompting him to seek opportunities elsewhere.
The White Sox's need for bullpen depth could pave the way for a reunion with Hendriks. As teams make last-minute roster adjustments, the White Sox might see Hendriks as a low-risk, high-reward addition.
Offering him a chance to rebuild his value in a lower-leverage role could be mutually beneficial. If things don't pan out, the financial commitment would be minimal, allowing the team to reassess without much downside.
Hendriks' competitive spirit and community involvement during his previous stint with the White Sox left a lasting impression. A return to the south side could be a fitting chapter as he looks to cap off his career, and it remains to be seen if the White Sox front office shares this sentiment.