The Boston Red Sox got some exciting news on Tuesday as Trevor Story opted into his contract and Jarren Duran signed a one-year deal for 2026, teeing up two of the team’s best players to return next season after helping lead the Red Sox to the playoffs this year.
One player who won’t be back, however, is veteran reliever Liam Hendriks, who struggled with injuries and poor performance in limited playing time this year.
MassLive’s Chris Cotillo reported on Tuesday that Boston declined its $12 million mutual option with Hendriks, making him a free agent. He will receive a $2 million buyout.
Hendriks joined the Red Sox on a two-year, $10 million deal prior to the 2024 season. He did not pitch at all in 2024, however, missing the entire season while recovering from Tommy John surgery.
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Boston hoped the three-time All-Star would bounce back and help anchor its bullpen in 2025, but he didn’t pan out. Hendriks made just 14 appearances for the Red Sox this year, going 0-2 with a 6.59 ERA in 13 2/3 innings before landing on the injured list again in late May and missing the rest of the season.
While Hendriks didn’t work out in Boston, perhaps another team will be willing to take a chance on the 36-year-old right-hander. He’s only a few years removed from being an elite closer and one of the best relievers in baseball for the Chicago White Sox, so perhaps he’s capable of an Aroldis Chapman-esque renaissance in 2026.
