The Cubs are taking time to turn over every stone in their ongoing search for bullpen help, including the requisite check-ins with injured relievers. One of those is former White Sox closer Liam Hendriks, who will miss at least the first half while recovering from elbow reconstruction on August 2. He told MLB.com’s Scott Merkin that his very optimistic goal is to return by the trade deadline.
Hendriks was named AL Comeback Player of the Year after winning a battle with Stage 4 non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. He managed just five innings in as many games at the big-league level, though Merkin notes the fiery fireballer was still touching triple digits even with a torn UCL.