Cubs’ Veteran Hendricks Announces Retirement After 12 Years
Longtime Chicago Cubs pitcher Kyle Hendricks has announced his retirement after a distinguished 12-year career in Major League Baseball (MLB). His agent confirmed the news, marking the end of an era for the veteran right-handed pitcher.
Kyle Hendricks: A Career Overview
Kyle Hendricks, 35, is celebrated for his impressive career with the Chicago Cubs, where he spent 11 seasons before finishing his tenure with the Los Angeles Angels. He racked up a total of 97 wins with a commendable 3.68 ERA during his time in Chicago.
Notable Achievements
- Won an ERA title in 2016
- Contributed to the Cubs’ World Series championship in 2016
- Had a career ERA of 4.76 in his final season
Hendricks was first drafted in 2011 by the Texas Rangers. He joined the Cubs the following season and made his MLB debut in 2014, showcasing his potential with a remarkable 2.46 ERA in his initial 13 starts.
Signature Moments
In 2016, Hendricks excelled with an impressive 16-8 record and a league-best 2.13 ERA. A standout performance came during the National League Championship Series when he outperformed Clayton Kershaw, pitching 7⅓ shutout innings to secure the Cubs’ first pennant in over seven decades.
That year also saw Hendricks on the mound for Game 7 of the World Series, playing a vital role in ending a 108-year championship drought for the Cubs.
Legacy and Future Plans
Affectionately dubbed “The Professor” due to his strategic prowess on the mound, Hendricks was known for his trademark change-up and sinker, which kept hitters guessing. Colleagues have praised him not just for his skills but also for his mentorship of younger players and his calm presence on and off the field.
In his final game at Wrigley Field, Hendricks received an emotional farewell after a stellar performance against the Cincinnati Reds. His contributions to the team both on the field and as a mentor will not be forgotten.
Currently, Hendricks has no immediate plans for coaching or a front office role and looks forward to spending quality time with his family after a successful career.
