-Ed-Mulholland-USA-TODAY-Sports-35
White Sox closer Liam Hendricks announced on Sunday that he has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma and will begin treatment on Monday.
“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,” the 33-year-old wrote on Instagram.
The 12-year veteran, is in the final year of a three-year, $54 million contract he signed with the Sox after the 2020 season. Hendricks has been named to the All-Star game in both seasons.
“We are optimistic he (Hendriks) will pitch again for the White Sox as soon as viable,” said White Sox general manager Rick Hahn in a team statement on Hendriks’ diagnosis. “We do not expect to have any updates on Liam’s playing status prior to Opening Day at the very earliest.”
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma accounts for about 4% of all cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. The survival rate for at least five years post diagnosis is over 70%.
Our thoughts are with with all parties involved.
Kendall Graveman likely will be called upon to closer for Chicago during Hendriks’ absence. The 32-year-old compiled a 3.18 ERA in 65 innings pitched for the Sox in 2022.
