The Boston Red Sox (68-64) are at risk of missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year, a streak they haven’t experienced since 2012.
Despite exceeding expectations in 2024, with a high of 10 games over .500 on July 14, they have struggled since, posting a 15-25 record. As they approach the final month of the season, there’s still hope among fans that they can secure one of the three AL wild-card spots. As of Wednesday, they trail the Minnesota Twins (72-60) by just four games for the last playoff spot.
In early September, the Red Sox might see the debut of one of their offseason signings, former All-Star closer Liam Hendriks, which could significantly strengthen their bullpen and playoff prospects.
According to MassLive.com’s Chris Cotillo, Liam Hendriks”remains on track” for a September debut with Boston. The 35-year-old right-hander signed a two-year, $10 million deal in February after undergoing Tommy John surgery last August. Hendriks noted that “15 or 16” teams showed interest in him after his surgery.
A three-time All-Star and two-time Mariano Rivera AL Reliever of the Year Award winner, Hendriks has made three minor league rehab appearances this month and is set to pitch for Triple-A Worcester on Wednesday and Friday. He had initially anticipated needing six to eight rehab outings before returning to the majors and plans to pitch on consecutive days next week, depending on his recovery.
Hendriks made a notable return with the Chicago White Sox last May following his battle with stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, though he was limited to five appearances before being sidelined again with elbow inflammation. He led the AL with 38 saves in 2021 and recorded 37 more saves in his most recent All-Star season in 2022.
Boston could benefit from another experienced bullpen arm, as veteran Kenley Jansen remains the only other pitcher with significant closing experience.