Liam Hendriks backs Aroldis Chapman as Red Sox closer

Liam Hendriks, a pitcher for the Boston Red Sox, stated he doesn't deserve to be the team's closer this season. He acknowledged Aroldis Chapman as the leading candidate for that role. Hendriks made these comments after a brief outing in a game against the Minnesota Twins, where he retired the only batter he faced. Hendriks praised Chapman for his impressive performance during spring training, noting that Chapman consistently throws between 97 to 100 mph. In their most recent game, Chapman also delivered a strong performance, throwing a scoreless inning with one strikeout. Hendriks, 36, is returning from a long recovery after battling cancer and undergoing Tommy John surgery. He missed most of the 2023 season and spent 2024 rehabbing. He expressed excitement about competing in games again and feels mentally prepared as the season approaches. While he admits this has not been his best spring training, Hendriks feels he is improving and is looking forward to the start of the season in Texas next week. He remains optimistic about contributing to the team and enjoying the competition.