Red Sox Reliever Shut Down, Likely Done For Season
Liam Hendriks wasn’t likely to play a role in the Boston Red Sox’s postseason plans. He hasn’t pitched since May 27. On May 30, he was placed on the injured list with hip inflammation.
On Saturday, Alex Cora announced that Hendriks had been shut down after he experienced arm tightness during rehab, making him unlikely to pitch again this season. Even if he did return, he wouldn’t be high on the list of candidates for a spot on the playoff roster.
Even when he was in the bullpen, he had yet to earn manager Alex Cora’s trust for high-leverage opportunities. In 13 2/3 innings, Hendriks registered a 6.59 ERA and 5.04 FIP.
The former All-Star’s fastball averaged 94.9 mph when healthy, well below his mark from when he was at the top of his game. The lack of a dominant fastball to get ahead of hitters led to more balls in play and ballooned his ERA.
Hendriks will be a free agent after the season, but it’s difficult to see a team giving him a significant commitment with his injury history and lack of effectiveness.
The roster will tighten up for the Red Sox down the stretch when every game becomes must-win. Chris Murphy and Zack Kelly have handled most of the low-leverage, mop-up duties recently.
Boston continues their series against the New York Yankees on Saturday afternoon.