Red Sox’ Liam Hendriks Contradicts Alex Cora, Says He Could Return This Year
Boston Red Sox reliever Liam Hendriks is pushing back on manager Alex Cora’s recent comments suggesting the veteran closer is unlikely to pitch in 2025. Speaking to reporters over the weekend, Hendriks expressed optimism about his rehabilitation and hinted at a potential return before the end of the current season.
“I feel great. I’ve been progressing well and hitting all the markers we’ve set,” Hendriks said. “I know what Alex said, but I’m not ready to rule anything out. I’m still aiming to pitch this year.”
Cora, earlier last week, told reporters the Red Sox are operating under the assumption that Hendriks won’t be available this season. “We’re not counting on him for 2025,” Cora stated. “The focus is 2026.”
Hendriks’ comments seemed to contradict that timeline. The 35-year-old is currently recovering from Tommy John surgery he underwent in August 2023. Typically, pitchers require 12–18 months to return from the procedure, placing Hendriks on the edge of a possible September comeback.
The right-hander, known for his fiery competitiveness, returned from a battle with non-Hodgkin lymphoma just last year and pitched briefly for the Chicago White Sox before undergoing elbow surgery. The Red Sox signed him to a two-year deal in January, hoping he’d bolster their bullpen long-term.
Despite his age and injury history, Hendriks remains determined. “If I’m healthy, I’ll pitch,” he said. “I’ve been through worse. This is just another challenge.”
Boston’s bullpen, while solid, could certainly use a boost if they stay in postseason contention. Hendriks’ experience and leadership could be invaluable down the stretch — if he’s ready.
Still, Cora and the team’s medical staff remain cautious. While Hendriks is throwing and progressing, no timeline for a return has been confirmed.
Whether Hendriks makes it back this season remains uncertain, but one thing is clear — he believes it’s possible.
