All you need to know about the playing status of Kyle Hendricks in Major League Baseball with the Chicago Cubs.
The Chicago Cubs are preparing to bring back right-handed pitcher Kyle Hendricks from the injured list, and he is scheduled to start Thursday’s game against the New York Mets.
Hendricks, who is 33 years old, will be returning to the major league after nearly a year. His last appearance was on July 5 of the previous year, after which he was placed on the injured list due to a shoulder strain. Initial MRIs did not show any significant damage, but he was eventually diagnosed with a small tear in the shoulder capsule. Although surgery was not necessary, he needed a considerable amount of time to fully recover.
Before experiencing a decline in recent seasons, Hendricks had been a dependable member of the Cubs’ pitching rotation for many years. From 2014 to 2020, he pitched over a thousand innings with an ERA of 3.12. During that time, his strikeout rate was relatively modest at 20.8%, but he demonstrated excellent control with a 5.3% walk rate.
He also induced a significant number of ground balls at a rate of 47.5%. Hendricks had notable success in the postseason, particularly in 2016 when he played a key role in helping the Cubs win their first World Series in over a century. He started five games with an impressive 1.42 ERA during that championship run. He is now the only remaining player from that historic Cubs team still on the roster.
However, in 2021 and 2022, his performance declined, as indicated by his combined 4.78 ERA and slightly worsened rate statistics. During that period, he struck out 17.3% of batters faced, walked 6%, and induced ground balls on 41% of balls in play. Hendricks has been undergoing rehabilitation in recent weeks and made five starts, during which he recorded a 5.75 ERA. It’s worth noting that most of the damage occurred in his first two outings, as he improved significantly with a 1.69 ERA in his final three starts. Only time will reveal what kind of results he can achieve at the major league level after such a lengthy injury hiatus.
Kyle Hendricks was drafted into Major League Baseball (MLB) in 2011. He was selected by the Texas Rangers in the eighth round of the MLB Draft that year. However, he did not sign with the Rangers and instead chose to continue his college career at Dartmouth College. Hendricks was later drafted again in 2011 by the Chicago Cubs in the 8th round, and this time he signed with the Cubs organization.
Known for his precision and ability to command the strike zone, Hendricks quickly became recognized for his exceptional control and efficient pitching style. His effectiveness was evident as he consistently posted low ERAs and demonstrated remarkable consistency on the mound. Hendricks’ unique ability to induce weak contact and keep hitters off-balance earned him the nickname “The Professor.”
Throughout his career, Hendricks has been a key contributor to the Cubs’ success. He played a vital role in the team’s historic 2016 World Series victory, delivering outstanding performances during the postseason. Hendricks’ ability to perform under pressure and excel in critical moments solidified his reputation as a reliable postseason pitcher.
In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Hendricks has been highly regarded for his professionalism, work ethic, and leadership qualities. He has served as a mentor to younger pitchers and has been praised for his dedication to constantly improving his craft.
As Hendricks continues his career, he remains a significant presence in the Cubs’ rotation, consistently delivering solid performances and serving as a leader within the team. His ability to effectively control the game with his pitching repertoire makes him a valuable asset and a consistent force on the mound.
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