The Chicago Cubs have made a savvy move to bolster their bullpen depth, agreeing to a minor league contract with veteran reliever Liam Hendriks. This deal gives the 37-year-old right-hander another opportunity to work his way back to the majors, according to a person familiar with the agreement who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity Wednesday because it was pending a physical.

Hendriks was released from his minor league deal with the Minnesota Twins on March 20 after a challenging spring training stint. Over seven innings across seven appearances, he allowed three runs, nine hits, and five walks—numbers that didn't quite capture the dominance he's known for. But the Cubs, currently leading the NL Central, are in need of bullpen reinforcements, as injuries have taken a toll on their relief corps. Key arms like Caleb Thielbar (left hamstring strain), Hunter Harvey (triceps inflammation), and Riley Martin (elbow inflammation) are all on the injured list, creating an opening for a seasoned pro like Hendriks to step in.

Hendriks boasts an impressive 116 saves over his 14-year career, with the bulk of those—114—coming during a dominant four-year stretch from 2019 to 2022. He was particularly electric with the Chicago White Sox in 2021, notching a career-high 38 saves. However, his journey hasn't been without obstacles. After the 2022 season, he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, a battle he courageously fought and won. In 2023, he made just five appearances before right elbow inflammation sidelined him, ultimately leading to Tommy John surgery. Last season with the Boston Red Sox, he posted a 6.59 ERA in 14 games, his campaign cut short by right hip inflammation.

For the Cubs, this signing is a low-risk, high-reward play. If Hendriks can rediscover even a fraction of his All-Star form, he could be a valuable piece down the stretch for a team eyeing October baseball. For fans and collectors alike, seeing him in Cubs gear is a reminder of the resilience that makes sports so compelling.