Liam Hendriks Set to Begin Rehab Assignment as Red Sox Bullpen Inches Closer to Full Strength
The Boston Red Sox are finally getting some good news on the bullpen front. After a tough start to the season and months of uncertainty, three-time All-Star Liam Hendriks is set to take a major step in his recovery that could soon bring him back to the big leagues.
An Offseason of Change Leaves Boston’s Bullpen in Flux
Heading into the 2025 season, the Red Sox bullpen was one of the team’s biggest question marks. Last year’s second-half collapse knocked Boston out of playoff contention, and the offseason didn’t bring much relief. Veteran relievers Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin left in free agency, taking with them experience and late-inning reliability.
Rather than signing a proven closer, the Red Sox opted for an open competition. Many expected Liam Hendriks, a fiery and proven reliever, to take over the ninth-inning role—especially if he could return to form after missing time due to Tommy John surgery.
A Setback Delays Hendriks’ Comeback
Unfortunately, Hendriks’ spring training didn’t go according to plan. The 36-year-old struggled to find his command and velocity, giving up seven earned runs over 7 1/3 innings. His rough outings made it clear he wasn’t quite ready, and the team turned to newcomer Aroldis Chapman, who emerged as the clear favorite for the closer’s role.
To make matters worse, Hendriks developed elbow inflammation just before the season began. The Red Sox placed him on the 15-day injured list on March 27, further delaying his long-anticipated return.
A Major Step Forward in Recovery
Now, Hendriks appears to be back on track. According to MassLive’s Chris Cotillo, he will begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Worcester on Thursday. While he’s not expected to return immediately, the assignment marks an encouraging sign that he’s trending in the right direction.
It’s the first real progress since Hendriks was shut down, and both he and the Red Sox are hopeful this stint in Worcester will help him regain his form.
A Battle-Tested Veteran With a Comeback Story
From 2019 to 2022, Hendriks was one of baseball’s most dominant relievers, earning two AL Reliever of the Year awards. His emotional, energetic presence on the mound made him a fan favorite and clubhouse leader.
But since then, his journey has been anything but easy. In late 2022, Hendriks was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma. He battled the disease and returned to pitch briefly for the White Sox in 2023 before a torn UCL ended his season. After undergoing Tommy John surgery, he’s spent over a year working toward another comeback.
Despite the setbacks, Hendriks has remained resilient and determined. His short rehab stint in 2023 showed promise, and now he’ll get another opportunity to work his way back.
Could Hendriks Be the Missing Piece?
The Red Sox bullpen has been serviceable so far this season, but it’s still searching for stability and leadership. If Hendriks can regain his form, even in a setup or hybrid role, he could become a game-changing piece for Boston down the stretch.
With over half of his two-year contract still remaining, the Red Sox are hoping the veteran can make a meaningful impact in 2025. As he heads to Worcester, the next chapter in his incredible comeback story is about to begin—and it could make all the difference for a bullpen that’s been waiting for a spark.