(670 The Score) There's no doubt in Cubs right-hander Kyle Hendricks' mind about what the best part of getting the ball on Opening Day will be – the fact that fans will be back in the Wrigley Field stands.
"It's going to be awesome to be a part of that first game," Hendricks said. "To have the fans back there helps us realize why we play the game. Just the energy they bring, it will be fun to see the guys take the field and really play for them."
With the Cubs having traded National League Cy Young runner-up Yu Darvish to the Padres in December and veteran left-hander Jon Lester leaving in free agency, Hendricks is the unquestioned ace and leader of a Cubs staff that will feature at least three starters who pitched elsewhere in 2020. And that's why there was never any doubt that manager David Ross would give Hendricks the ball when the Cubs host the Pirates in their opener on April 1, news that became official Tuesday.
"I just try and be the same guy I have always been," Hendricks said. "I always want the guys to be able to trust what they get out of me. So putting in the work and every fifth day taking that ball, I want to go deep into each ballgame and give my team a chance to win. That's the guy I always want to be now taking on that responsibility."
Hendricks will be making his second Opening Day start after throwing a gem to open the 2020 season, when he fired a complete game shutout against the Brewers. That one came at an empty Wrigley Field, as fans weren't allowed amid the pandemic during the 2020 season.
Hendricks, 31, has a 3.12 ERA in seven MLB seasons. He appreciates the opportunity to get the ball on Opening Day again.
"I just see what goes on in this organization," Hendricks said. "They have always allowed me to be the guy I am."
One of Hendricks' goals in 2021 is to throw 200 innings. He threw a career-high 199 in 2018.
"This is something we want to strive for," Hendricks said. "Even if you get close to that number, it means you are going deep into games. And even if you can't get to that number, the goal is somewhere close."
Hendricks knows his role as the veteran staff ace carries more responsibility than just taking the ball every fifth day. He also wants to help mentor the Cubs' younger pitchers.
"I have had over the last couple of seasons younger guys coming up and asking me about pitching," Hendricks said. "Being around here for a while now, I know everyone (in the organization) pretty well. So I love having those conversations with younger guys. We talk pitching and what big league life is all about."
Bruce Levine covers the Cubs and White Sox for 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter @MLBBruceLevine.
