Liam Hendriks will begin treatment Monday for non-Hodgkin lymphoma, the Chicago White Sox closer announced in an Instagram post Sunday.
“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,” Hendriks wrote. “It is in that spirit that I want to share some personal health news I have learned in the past few days, and do so on my own terms.
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“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 the 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.”
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Hendriks, 33, is one of the top relievers in baseball. He led the American League with 38 saves in 2021 and was second with 37 saves last season. He is a three-time All-Star, including each of the last two seasons with the Sox.
Off the field, he and Kristi Hendriks have continually made an impact in the community, such as donating meals from local businesses to some of the city’s first responders shortly after signing with the Sox before the 2021 season.
“Our thoughts and reactions at this time are for Liam the person, not Liam the baseball player,” Sox general manager Rick Hahn said in a statement. “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.”
