Back to the Beginning: Liam Hendriks' Journey Continues with the Twins
FORT MYERS, Fla. -- Liam Hendriks, the Comeback Player of the Year in 2023, is back where it all began: the Twins' bullpen. Despite his accolades, Hendriks acknowledges that he's still striving to reach the pinnacle of his pre-2023 form, a three-time All-Star caliber performance. With the Twins, he's optimistic about reclaiming that peak.
The road to recovery, however, has been arduous. Hendriks battled non-Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2023, followed by a right elbow injury requiring reconstructive surgery, causing him to miss the entire 2024 season. He then made a brief appearance for the Red Sox in 2025, pitching 13 2/3 innings. Now, he's back in recovery mode, undergoing ulnar nerve transposition and radial nerve decompression procedures in his right elbow in September.
The 37-year-old Hendriks, who lost feeling in some fingers of his right hand, is determined to regain his former glory. He's throwing again and eager to secure a spot in the Twins' bullpen, signing as a Minor League free agent with a non-roster invitation to Spring Training. If he can recapture even a fraction of his pre-2023 form, he'll be a valuable asset, likely pitching crucial late-game innings.
The Twins' bullpen is open, providing an opportunity for Hendriks to close or pitch high-leverage innings. His familiarity with the team, having started his career with the Twins and residing in Fort Myers, adds to his comfort. Hendriks also celebrates the acquisition of jersey number 31, a long-sought goal as the 31st Australian to play in the big leagues, previously held by Ryan Kreidler.
Manager Derek Shelton praises Hendriks' character, highlighting his positive reputation in the game. Despite his challenges, Hendriks is determined to prove himself this spring, having opted to withdraw from the World Baseball Classic to focus on his recovery and performance.
This spring, Hendriks faces a unique challenge: he must demonstrate his skills while also rebuilding his strength after injuries. He's chosen to pace himself, avoiding the pitfalls of overworking too early, which could lead to unnecessary soreness. Hendriks' journey continues, with the Twins' bullpen offering a fresh start and the opportunity to restart his career after a tumultuous few years.
