In a well-deserved victory, reliever Liam Hendriks has been named one of Major League Baseball’s Comeback Players of the Year. This recognition comes after a challenging season that saw the 34-year-old right-hander battle non-Hodgkin lymphoma, make a successful return to the field, and subsequently undergo Tommy John surgery.
Hendriks began his impressive recovery journey on May 29, stepping back onto the pitcher’s mound after intensive treatment for lymphoma. In five appearances for the Chicago White Sox, he showcased his resilience, going 2-0 with one save and a 5.40 ERA. However, his comeback was cut short when he landed on the injured list due to right elbow inflammation.
August 2 marked another pivotal moment for Hendriks as he underwent Tommy John surgery, an extensive procedure that will indefinitely sideline him until either late in the 2024 season or even 2025. Hendriks’ strength and dedication have been evident throughout his 13-year career, which includes prominent stints with the Minnesota Twins, Kansas City Royals, Toronto Blue Jays, Oakland Athletics, and ultimately the Chicago White Sox.
Throughout his career, Hendriks has accumulated a respectable record of 33-34, maintaining a 3.82 ERA. Notably, he has recorded an impressive 116 saves in 140 appearances. The right-hander has proven himself to be a formidable force on the mound, earning three All-Star appearances and consistently delivering impactful performances.
In 2021, during his first year with the Chicago White Sox, Hendriks demonstrated his undeniable talent. He secured an impressive 38 saves while maintaining a stellar 2.54 ERA. This outstanding performance led to Hendriks signing a lucrative $54 million, three-year deal with Chicago as a free agent.
However, the following season presented new challenges for the Australian native. Despite showcasing his abilities with a 2.81 ERA and 37 saves, the White Sox declined a $15 million option. Instead, they opted to pay a $15 million buyout in installments spread over a decade.
Along with Hendriks, outfielder Cody Bellinger has been recognized as one of Major League Baseball’s Comeback Players of the Year. Bellinger’s journey to redemption has been marked by perseverance and a rekindling of his exceptional abilities.
The 28-year-old slugger experienced a rejuvenating season, hitting a career-high .307 with 26 home runs and 97 RBIs. After signing with the Chicago Cubs as a free agent on a one-year, $17.5 million contract, Bellinger showcased his remarkable talent and contributed significantly to the team’s success.
Prior to his resurgence, Bellinger faced adversity during the 2021 regular season. Sidelined multiple times due to injuries, he appeared in only 95 games and struggled with a batting average of .165. However, the postseason presented an opportunity for Bellinger to reclaim his dominance. In 12 games, he batted an impressive .353 and played a crucial role in the Chicago Cubs’ playoff run.
Bellinger’s postseason heroics were particularly memorable in Game 5 of the NL Division Series against the San Francisco Giants. He delivered a clutch RBI single, contributing to the team’s victory. Additionally, in Game 3 of the NL Championship Series against the Atlanta Braves, Bellinger hit a pivotal, game-tying three-run homer.
As a two-time All-Star and the 2017 NL Rookie of the Year, Bellinger has consistently demonstrated his prowess on the baseball field. His exceptional abilities have earned him recognition as the 2018 National League Championship Series MVP with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
But it was during the 2022 season that Bellinger faced his biggest test. Overcoming adversity and displaying remarkable resilience, he embarked on a journey of redemption that culminated in his remarkable comeback.
The recognition of Liam Hendriks and Cody Bellinger as MLB’s Comeback Players of the Year highlights their extraordinary determination and resilience. Their unwavering commitment to overcoming adversities and rediscovering their exceptional talents has not only been an inspiration to their teams but to the entire baseball community.
As we celebrate these remarkable comeback stories, we are reminded of the indomitable human spirit and the limitless potential for resurgence even in the face of formidable challenges. Hendriks and Bellinger have demonstrated that setbacks are not the end of the story but merely stepping stones towards greater achievements.
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