Veteran reliever Liam Hendriks has signed a minor-league contract with the Minnesota Twins as he aims to revive his career following significant health challenges. The 37-year-old, who began his major league journey with the Twins, hopes to secure a key bullpen role if he can regain his previous form and maintain his health throughout spring training in Fort Myers, Florida.
Hendriks’ decision to rejoin the Twins was influenced by multiple factors, including the opportunity to compete for bullpen spots left open on the team. Additionally, his familiarity with the organization — dating back to when he signed as a teenager in 2007 — provides a sense of comfort. The convenience of having a place in Fort Myers also eased the burden of spring training logistics and expenses.
Finally, Hendriks was able to reclaim the jersey number 31, a symbolically important number he wore during his start with the Twins, an achievement he treasured deeply.
Overcoming Multiple Health Setbacks to Return to Baseball
Hendriks’ path back to the mound has not been easy. After the 2022 season, he was diagnosed with stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, marking one of the most serious challenges of his career and life. He made an emotional comeback in 2023 once his cancer went into remission, showcasing his resilience and determination. Unfortunately, the season ended prematurely for Hendriks due to an elbow injury that required Tommy John surgery.
Continuing to face physical adversity in 2024, Hendriks missed the entire season as he recovered from surgery. Later, additional hip and elbow problems arose, prompting a second elbow operation. He also developed nerve complications, resulting in loss of sensation in three fingers on his right hand. In late September, he underwent an ulnar nerve transposition with posterior interosseous nerve release surgery to address these issues.
The road to regaining feeling in his fingers took several months, but Hendriks now reports positive progress, feeling good as he prepares for his return. Just two years ago, he was considered among the top closers in baseball, achieving 37 saves during the 2022 season and earning selection to his third All-Star Game.
Adjusting Training and Mindset to Support Comeback
Reflecting on his journey, Hendriks admits that despite his partial return last year, he hasn’t fully come back from cancer. He credits his offseason training at Cressey Sports Performance with helping him rebuild not only his physical strength but also his mental resilience. He recognized that after his 2023 Tommy John surgery, he had been sticking to an insufficient workout routine and made a conscious effort to change that approach, focusing more on self-care and rehabilitation.
So far, Hendriks has completed six bullpen sessions, including a notable showcase in late January where the Twins evaluated his pitching. Recognizing the need to prioritize his recovery, he has opted not to pitch for Australia in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, despite being part of the nation’s designated pitchers group.
This difficult decision stemmed from the fact that his arm has not yet been fully tested in competition. By focusing on securing his role with the Twins and aiming to win a spot during camp, Hendriks hopes to ensure a stronger, healthier return to professional play.
Coming Full Circle as Career Reboots in Minnesota
Hendriks reflects on the symbolism behind returning to the Twins and seeking a fresh start after several lost years due to injuries and illness.
“There’s something kind of cyclical about it, starting my career here, coming back now and hoping to restart my career after three kind of lost years,”
he said. – Liam Hendriks, Pitcher
Originally from Australia, Hendriks was the 31st Australian to reach the major leagues when he debuted in 2011. His connection to the Twins runs deep, despite many of his former teammates now moving on or retiring, and a portion of the current staff remaining from his early days. This familiarity adds to his confidence and motivation to reclaim his role.
His comeback attempt encapsulates a journey of resilience, dedication, and persistence—qualities essential for any athlete recovering from serious setbacks. Hendriks’ progression will be closely watched by the Twins organization, fans, and fellow players, as he strives to regain his form as one of the game’s premier closers.
Implications for Twins’ Bullpen and Future Prospects
The Twins’ bullpen has potential vacancies, making Hendriks’ health and performance critical to their depth. Should he regain his previous elite form, he could provide a major boost to the team’s late-inning pitching options. His experience and leadership could also benefit younger relievers striving to establish themselves in the major leagues.
While the coming months will be pivotal for Hendriks and Minnesota’s pitching staff, this reunion represents hope for both sides. Hendriks is committed to proving his readiness to contribute after several challenging seasons, and the Twins have extended a platform for a possible resurgence.
Looking ahead, Hendriks’ return to competitive pitching will require patience, focus, and durability. His upcoming performances in spring training and potential later involvement in international competitions could mark significant milestones in his comeback journey. Above all, his story remains one of perseverance in the face of adversity, underscoring the relentless spirit that defines professional athletes.
