Boston Red Sox pitcher Liam Hendriks, a former standout for the Chicago White Sox, has recently spoken out against a disturbing wave of online abuse. Despite his inspiring return to Major League Baseball after battling Stage 4 non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, Hendriks and his wife, Kristi, have been subjected to death threats and hateful messages from some fans.
In a candid Instagram Story on May 22, Hendriks addressed the vitriol, stating, "Threats against my life and my wife's life are horrible and cruel. You need help." He condemned comments wishing he had died from cancer and urging him to commit suicide, labeling them as "disgusting and vile." Hendriks urged those responsible to "reevaluate your life's purpose before hiding behind a screen attacking players and their families".
Hendriks' journey back to the mound has been nothing short of remarkable. Diagnosed in January 2023, he underwent rigorous immunotherapy and chemotherapy treatments. By April of that year, he was declared cancer-free and made an emotional return to the White Sox in May, receiving a standing ovation from fans . Later, he underwent Tommy John surgery, sidelining him for the remainder of the season. In February 2024, Hendriks signed a two-year, $10 million deal with the Red Sox. However, his time in Boston has been marred by limited playing opportunities and a challenging 5.56 ERA over 11 games.
The online abuse intensified following a recent game against the New York Mets, where Hendriks gave up three hits in the seventh inning. Despite his struggles, Hendriks emphasized the importance of consistent play to regain his form, stating, "I feel like I haven't been pitching enough and if you wanted me to be me, I got to pitch".
Beyond the field, Hendriks and his wife have been active in community service. Kristi Hendriks founded the South Slydah Society, a meal delivery program supporting frontline workers, and both have been involved in anti-bullying campaigns . Their commitment to philanthropy and resilience in the face of adversity have made them respected figures both in and out of the baseball community.
Hendriks' recent experiences highlight the darker side of sports fandom, where athletes and their families can become targets of unwarranted hostility. His call for empathy and accountability serves as a reminder of the human side of professional sports and the importance of supporting players beyond their on-field performances.
