The White Sox received easily their best news of the season on Thursday afternoon, as closer Liam Hendriks has announced that he is officially in remission and is cancer free.
The three-time all star pitcher was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma in early January, and had been undergoing chemotherapy, which he finished earlier this month. Hendriks, an important player for the White Sox both on and off the field, was not placed on the 60-day IL to begin the season, which general manager Rick Hahn said was intentional. Hendriks is known for his warrior mentality, and many teammates have come out and expressed their confidence in his ability to beat cancer and make it back onto the diamond.
Today’s news will be an incredible boost to the White Sox family, who were in desperate need of some good news, and goes beyond baseball. Although the White Sox have yet to announce a timetable for Liam’s return to the field, he was reportedly throwing periodically during spring training and has done his best to stay in shape during his treatments. He will likely require a few minor league outings to get back up to speed, but it could be sooner rather than later that Liam returns to a bullpen that badly needs him.
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Featured Image: Jessica Rapfogel-USA TODAY Sports
