Twins Sign Liam Hendriks to Minor League Deal
The Minnesota Twins have made a strategic move to sign veteran reliever Liam Hendriks to a minor league contract. This deal includes an invitation to MLB spring training camp, as confirmed by various sources, including Robert Murray and Jon Heyman.
Hendriks’ Return to Minnesota
This signing marks a significant homecoming for Hendriks, who initially joined the Twins as an amateur player from Australia. He made his MLB debut with the team in September 2011, playing a total of 30 games over three seasons. During this period, he struggled, posting a 6.06 ERA before the Twins designated him for assignment after the 2013-14 offseason.
Career Progression
After leaving Minnesota, Hendriks found himself bouncing around different teams. His full transition to the bullpen significantly improved his performance, leading to a successful stint as a closer with the Oakland Athletics. He later signed a lucrative four-year deal with the Chicago White Sox, earning three All-Star selections and finishing in the top 10 for the Cy Young Award in 2020 and 2021. He also led the American League in saves during part of his career.
Recent Challenges
However, recent seasons have proved to be tough for Hendriks. In the winter of 2022-23, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma but overcame the illness. Unfortunately, injuries hindered his return to baseball. In particular, he underwent Tommy John surgery, limiting his appearances over the last three seasons with the White Sox and Boston Red Sox.
Current Situation
Hendriks missed all of the 2024 season and made only 14 appearances last year due to persistent health issues. He faced elbow inflammation and an abdominal strain, ultimately undergoing surgery that cut his season short. The Red Sox decided to buy out his contract after he pitched just over 13 innings, yielding 11 runs.
Opportunities for Hendriks
Despite signing a minor league contract, Hendriks has a reasonable chance to make the Twins’ team. Minnesota’s bullpen has only a few secure spots, with Taylor Rogers, Justin Topa, Cole Sands, and Kody Funderburk likely to secure their roles. Additionally, new acquisition Eric Orze has a good chance to secure a position in the bullpen.
Contract Provisions
As a player with six years of service time, Hendriks qualifies as an Article XX(b) free agent. His contract includes several automatic opt-out dates, allowing him to leave the contract five days before the season starts, on May 1, or June 1. Should he choose to utilize one of these opt-out clauses, the Twins have a two-day window to promote him or release him.
