Liam Hendriks is making a triumphant return to Major League Baseball after a lengthy battle with cancer and subsequent surgeries. The 36-year-old right-hander was activated by the Boston Red Sox, eager to pitch in the big leagues for the first time since June 2023. Hendriks was diagnosed with Stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in December 2022, forcing him to take a break from the game. After surgeries and rehab, he made a comeback, showing promise during spring training.

His journey has been one of resilience, and he was awarded the AL Comeback Player of the Year for 2023. Hendriks noted the mental challenges of returning to the mound, as he struggled to regain the confidence that made him an All-Star closer with the Oakland Athletics and Chicago White Sox. Support from his wife and a desire to improve daily fueled his determination. Fans and teammates are excited to witness his comeback.