Liam Hendriks will not begin the 2023 season on the 60-day IL and could return by June.
The Chicago White Sox received terrible news at the beginning of the new year. The team announced it would be without closer Liam Hendriks indefinitely as he underwent treatment for non-Hodgkins lymphoma. On the eve of Opening Day, general manager Rick Hahn provided an encouraging update on the Aussie closer.
An update on Hendriks, among other players, was expected on Wednesday. But the great news is that Hendriks is winning his battle with the disease. Furthermore, he's doing so well that the White Sox will not place him on the 60-day injured list to begin the 2023 season. In other words, he is progressing well enough that a return to the team in June is a strong possibility.
It's encouraging news for Hendriks, his family, and White Sox fans to hear he's responded well to his treatment. In the interim, Kendall Graveman, Joe Kelly, or Reynaldo Lopez will assume closer duties. All of of the aforementioned names are competent options.
Nevertheless, the two-time All-Star is one of the best closers in baseball. In addition, his presence, production, and fiery personality significantly bolster the pitching staff and the entire team.
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