Closer of the White Sox, Liam Hendriks has announced via his IG (Instagram) that he unfortunately has Cancer.

“Hearing the word ’cancer’ came as a shock to my wife and I, as it does to millions of families each year. However, I am resolved to embrace the fight and overcome this new challenge with the same determination I have used when facing other obstacles in my life…

My treatment begins tomorrow, and I am confident that I will make a full recovery and be back on the mound as soon as possible. I know with the support of my wife, my family, my teammates, and the Chicago White Sox organization, along with the treatment and care from my doctors, I will get through this.”

Via Hendriks’ IG

Hendriks is currently listed as the closer for the Chicago White Sox, however, rumors across the internet have the Mets targeting the right-hander for bullpen help. The veteran is two years deep into a three year deal worth $54M, not an impossible contract to relocate.

Unfortunately, all that is currently on hold as Hendriks will receive treatment for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

General Manager of the White Sox, Rick Hanh has released a statement on behalf of the organization.

“Our thoughts and reactions at this time are for Liam the person, not Liam the baseball player. I know the entire Chicago White Sox organization, our staff, his teammates, and certainly White Sox fans, will rally in support of Liam and Kristi during the coming months. Knowing everyone involved, especially Liam, we are optimistic he will pitch again for the White Sox as soon as viable. In the meantime, we all will do everything in our power to support our teammate and his family as they face this challenge, while also respecting their privacy. We do not expect to have any updates on Liam’s playing status prior to Opening Day at the very earliest.”

Hendriks has a career 3.81 ERA over the span of 12 seasons. The veteran has collected 115 saves throughout his career, including a career high of 38 with the Sox in 2019.

Prayers go out to Hendriks and his family as they fight this horrible disease.