Liam Hendriks had a short-lived run on the field in 2023, but his perseverance in battling back from cancer will have long-lasting effects far beyond the baseball diamond. The Chicago White Sox closer was named the 2023 American League Comeback Player of the Year, MLB announced Thursday.
Hendriks revealed his non-Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnosis in January but was back on the mound for the White Sox in late May. The fiery Australian closer has never been one to back down from a challenge, exemplified by his handling of the cards he was dealt.
The 34-year-old remained his usual upbeat self through it all. From tossing bullpen sessions between treatments to meeting with so many individuals who have been affected by cancer, Hendriks went above and beyond to earn the Jimmy V Award and now AL Comeback Player of the Year honors.
Hendriks recorded one save in five games during his third season with the White Sox before another tough break came his way. The right-hander underwent Tommy John surgery in August, likely keeping him out for most of the 2024 campaign as well.
Despite another setback, Hendriks continued his charitable work and became the White Sox nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award. While his team faded into irrelevance rather quickly, Hendriks' journey in 2023 served as a source of inspiration and will continue to do so.
More must-reads: