On Sunday night, the Chicago White Sox announced that Liam Hendriks will begin treatment for Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma this week. Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a form of cancer that begins in the lymphatic system, part of the body’s germ-fighting immune system.
Despite the setback, the All-Star reliever said in a statement that he hopes to pitch again this season and that he is confident he can win his battle against cancer. Here is his full statement:
“As a professional athlete, I have always been mindful to try and use my position in the public eye to the most positive ends possible by shining a light on causes or issues that touch close to home for myself, my wife, and my family. It is in that spirit that I want to share some personal health news I have learned in the last few days and do so on my own terms.
“Recently, I was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. 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 this 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.”
White Sox general manager Rick Hahn also released a statement via the team’s Twitter that read:
“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,” he added.
Hendriks will be entering his third season in Chicago after signing a three-year deal worth $54 million before the 2021 season. It has turned out to be one of Rick Hahn’s better signings.
In 2021 he was named the Mariano Rivera American League Reliever of the Year for the second straight season, becoming the first pitcher to earn the award in consecutive seasons. He led the American League in saves (38), strikeouts (113), WHIP (0.73), and strikeout-to-walk ratio (16.14).
In 2022 the Australian was named an All-Star for the third straight season. His ERA went up a tick in 2022 from 2.54 to 2.81, but he still managed to log 37 saves. Hendriks has consistently been one of the best relievers in baseball over the last four seasons.
Unfortunalty life comes at you fast and will throw a curveball when you are least expecting it. Hendrik’s recent diagnosis is a horrible break for a great player and an even better person. Our thoughts and prayers are with Hendriks and his family during this difficult time.
Praying for a healing through the treatment