Chicago White Sox News: Liam Hendriks injury update
Chicago White Sox closer Liam Hendriks remains sidelined with right elbow inflammation and in an update provided by manager Pedro Grifol prior to Sunday’s game against the Boston Red Sox, Hendriks does not appear to be returning any time soon.
Pedro Grifol said Liam Hendriks will not be back from the IL before the All-Star break. Less definite that Mike Clevinger won’t pitch till second half, but given that he’s a starter and will require to be built back up, it’s certainly possible.
— Vinnie Duber (@VinnieDuber) June 25, 2023
Hendriks’ return in May was one of the feel-good stories of the White Sox season but it was shortlived as he only made five appearances before being shut down with the elbow injury.
The news certainly is not what White Sox fans were hoping for as Hendriks’ return has been pushed to the second half of the season.
The question for the White Sox now becomes what to make of their bullpen. Expect Grifol to move forward with Kendall Graveman getting the first opportunity to serve as the team’s de facto closer.
After struggling in his first season with the White Sox in 2022, Graveman has returned to form this season. In 34 appearances this season, Graveman has posted an ERA of 2.70 and a BABIP of .188. There certainly is some luck at play with Graveman’s numbers this season but considering Reynaldo Lopez’s struggles in high-leverage situations, the former Mariners’ closer makes the most sense at this point in time.
The update on the Chicago White Sox injuries to pitchers Liam Hendriks and Mike Clevinger is not good.
Though, a name that may emerge if Graveman falters is Gregory Santos. Unlike Graveman, Santos’ 2023 numbers are more indicative of success as opposed to luck. Santos has an ERA of 2.75 through 34 appearances this season and a 2.51 FIP.
Not to be lost in the update on Hendriks is the update that was also provided in regard to starting pitcher Mike Clevinger. While Grifol did not rule out Clevinger returning before the All-Star break, it would seem that a second-half activation from the injured list is more likely.
Health has been no friend to the White Sox this season and one would have to wonder, what team will Hendriks and Clevinger be returning to after the All-Star break. The White Sox are expected to shop veteran players on expiring contracts at the Major League Baseball Trade Deadline and Clevinger may be included in that group if he can prove to be healthy.
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