(670 The Score) White Sox closer Liam Hendriks has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and will begin treatment Monday, he announced Sunday evening.
“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 on his Instagram account. "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. 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 millions of families each year. However, I am resolved to embrace the fight and overcome this challenge with the same determination I have used when facing other obstacles in my life. My treatment begins tomorrow, and I am confident 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.”
Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system in which white blood cells known as lymphocytes grow abnormally and can form tumors throughout the body, according to the Mayo Clinic.
The White Sox don't expect to have an update on Hendriks' playing status prior to Opening Day, general manager Rick Hahn said in a statement.
“Our thoughts and reactions at this time are for Liam the person, not Liam the baseball player," Hahn said. "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."
Hendriks, 33, is coming off an All-Star campaign in 2022, when he had 37 saves and posted a 2.81 ERA and 1.04 WHIP in 58 appearances.
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