The Chicago White Sox have been perhaps the most disappointing team in the American League with a 13-25 record as of Thursday afternoon.
They have suffered key injuries like almost every other team in the league, but the fact is they are one of the most dysfunctional teams in baseball, with a rather mediocre roster and an even worse farm system.
One of their injured stars was Liam Hendricks.
More than an injury, he had to battle non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a form of cancer.
Fortunately, he came out on top in his battle and needed about five months to beat it.
Last week, the White Sox announced he would need a handful of rehab outings before returning to the active roster.
In the final stages of his rehab, he kept his arm in shape by throwing bullpens.
Teammates and the world of baseball, through social media, always showed him love and support.
As a result, his arm is just about ready to return to active duty, with everything that represents.
Just look at his recent velocity readings.
“Liam Hendriks’ fastball velocities in his rehab outings: Last Friday —-> 91 93 93 92 93 93. Tonight ——-> 94 94 93 94 95 95 93 94,” Codify Baseball tweeted.
Liam Hendriks’ fastball velocities in his rehab outings:
Last Friday —-> 91 93 93 92 93 93
Tonight ——-> 94 94 93 94 95 95 93 94 pic.twitter.com/WCphoUlgAJ— Codify (@CodifyBaseball) May 11, 2023
For reference, he averaged 97.8 mph with his fastball in 2021 and 2022.
However, he has also been successful while averaging 95 or 96 in the past.
It’s a gradual process, but it’s really encouraging to see his velocity increase a bit every outing.
He is very close to where he needs to be physically.
That’s good, because he is trending towards a return next week.
It will be one of the best moments of the season.
NEXT:
Liam Hendriks Is Now Rocking The Perfect Shirt
