Reliever Liam Hendriks has been selected as Major League Baseball’s Comeback Player of the Year. The Australian-born right-hander had an incredible journey back to the game after battling non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Making his season debut on May 29, Hendriks showed remarkable resilience, going 2-0 with one save and a 5.40 ERA in five appearances for the Chicago White Sox. Unfortunately, his comeback was short-lived as he landed on the injured list with right elbow inflammation and later underwent Tommy John surgery. This setback will keep him sidelined until late in the 2024 season or even 2025.
Hendriks, a three-time All-Star, has had an impressive career, with a 3.82 ERA and 116 saves in 140 appearances over 13 major league seasons. His stellar performance in 2021, recording an 8-3 record with a 2.54 ERA and a career-high 38 saves, earned him a $54 million, three-year deal with the White Sox. However, his subsequent season in 2022 was slightly less impressive, going 4-4 with a 2.81 ERA and 37 saves. Ultimately, the White Sox declined his option, resulting in a $15 million buyout spread over ten years.
Outfielder Cody Bellinger also earned the title of Major League Baseball’s Comeback Player of the Year. After a challenging 2021 season plagued by injuries and a batting average of .165, Bellinger bounced back in a big way. The 28-year-old signed a $17.5 million, one-year deal with the Chicago Cubs as a free agent and delivered an impressive performance, hitting a career-high .307 with 26 home runs and 97 RBIs.
Bellinger’s resurgence is a testament to his determination and skill. In addition to his Comeback Player of the Year award, he received a $1 million bonus. This recognition is well-deserved for a player who has already been voted the NL Rookie of the Year in 2017 and the NL Championship Series MVP in 2018.
Despite his previous challenges, Bellinger’s 2021 postseason performance showcased his ability to shine on the big stage. In just 12 games, he hit .353 and had a crucial go-ahead RBI single in Game 5 of the NL Division Series against the San Francisco Giants. Additionally, he delivered a game-tying, three-run homer in Game 3 of the NL Championship Series against the Atlanta Braves.
The recognition of Liam Hendriks and Cody Bellinger as Major League Baseball’s Comeback Players of the Year highlights their extraordinary perseverance and determination to overcome adversity. Both players faced significant challenges, but through their resilience, they were able to make triumphant returns to the game they love.
These comeback stories serve as inspiration to not only athletes but also individuals facing their own obstacles. They remind us of the power of perseverance and the possibility of overcoming even the toughest of challenges. Hendriks and Bellinger’s impressive comebacks are undoubtedly moments that will be remembered in the annals of Major League Baseball history.
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