The Boston Red Sox will be looking to turn the corner when they begin a three-game series with the Atlanta Braves at Truist Park on Friday night. Alex Cora's club has lost five consecutive games ahead of the series opener, highlighting just how badly the Red Sox could use some good news before the weekend.
Unfortunately, the team's latest injury news has brought anything but positive vibes to the Red Sox's clubhouse.
Red Sox Place RHP Liam Hendriks on IL, Promote RHP Nick Burdi From Triple-A Worcester
On Friday afternoon, MassLive's Chris Cotillo reported that the Red Sox have placed right-handed reliever Liam Hendriks on the injured list with an unknown ailment. As Boston fans continue to learn about the 36-year-old hurler's situation, the club also announced that fellow RHP Nick Burdi has been promoted from Triple-A Worcester.
It'll be interesting to find out the nature of Hendriks' injury in the coming days. The Australian veteran most recently surrendered three earned runs and two hits on 16 pitches during Tuesday's 5-1 road loss to the Milwaukee Brewers.
While it's never a good thing to see a player sidelined, a brief IL stint could be what Hendriks needs to get back on track. The three-time MLB All-Star is still looking to rediscover his groove after missing the 2024 campaign due to Tommy John surgery recovery, and some time away from the team couldn't have come at a better time.
Hendriks opened the 2025 campaign on a high note, pitching to a 1.80 ERA with eight strikeouts in his first nine appearances (10 innings) in a Red Sox uniform. The wheels have completely fallen off since then, as the two-time American League Closer of the Year owns a putrid 19.64 ERA across 3 2/3 innings in his last five outings.
Hendriks' injury is the latest on a long list the Red Sox have built up lately. Names like Triston Casas, Tanner Houck, Romy Gonzalez, and Kutter Crawford are just a handful of Boston veterans currently sidelined, playing a big role in the club's inconsistencies throughout the year.
As Hendriks heals, Burdi will return to the Red Sox bullpen after pitching 2 1/3 scoreless innings in the Majors earlier this month. He looked comfortable on an MLB mound before his demotion, leaving time to tell if he will pick up from where he left off.
Hopefully, Hendriks' issue isn't serious and that he can return to the mix sooner rather than later. As disappointing as his 2025 performance has been, the Red Sox's outlook will improve if he can find a way to turn back the clock before the club is out of playoff contention.