**BOSTON, MA –** The Boston Red Sox have officially placed veteran reliever Liam Hendriks on the injured list indefinitely following a recent diagnosis of elbow inflammation. The team announced the decision on Friday, citing ongoing discomfort in his throwing arm that has raised concerns within the organization. While the Red Sox have not specified a timetable for his return, Hendriks’ injury presents a significant setback for both the pitcher and the club as they prepare for the 2025 season.
Hendriks, 36, signed a two-year, $10 million contract with Boston in February after completing a remarkable comeback from both Tommy John surgery and a battle with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The right-hander had shown promise during spring training, making seven appearances and displaying solid velocity. However, recurring elbow pain prompted further medical evaluation, leading to the decision to shut him down indefinitely.
Medical assessments confirmed inflammation in Hendriks’ pitching elbow, but fortunately, no structural damage was detected. The Red Sox’s medical staff administered a cortisone injection to reduce swelling, and Hendriks has been advised to rest while undergoing additional treatment. Despite this encouraging news, the club remains cautious, acknowledging the uncertainty surrounding his recovery timeline.
“It’s frustrating, but at the same time, I’ve been through worse,” Hendriks stated in a press release. “Right now, it’s about listening to my body, following the medical team’s advice, and making sure I come back stronger.” His resilience has been a defining trait throughout his career, and the Red Sox are hopeful he can once again overcome adversity.
The absence of Hendriks leaves a significant gap in the Red Sox bullpen. He was expected to serve as a key late-inning reliever, potentially competing for the closer role. With his indefinite sidelining, the team will now need to explore alternative bullpen strategies. Manager Alex Cora acknowledged the challenge, emphasizing the team’s depth but recognizing the difficulty of replacing Hendriks’ experience and leadership.
“This is obviously not what we wanted to start the season, but we’re going to take it one step at a time,” Cora said. “Liam has battled through tough situations before, and we know he’ll do everything he can to get back on the mound.” In the meantime, Boston is expected to rely more heavily on Kenley Jansen and Chris Martin in high-leverage situations.
Hendriks’ injury raises questions about how the Red Sox will manage their bullpen workload in the coming months. While the organization has not ruled out seeking external reinforcement, internal options such as Garrett Whitlock and Josh Winckowski may see increased opportunities. The front office remains optimistic that Hendriks’ condition will improve with rest and non-surgical treatment.
For now, the Red Sox and their fans can only wait and hope for positive developments. Hendriks has built a career on perseverance, and though his latest setback is a blow to both him and the team, his determination remains unwavering. The Red Sox will continue to monitor his progress closely, with updates expected as his rehabilitation unfolds.