Veteran Reliever Takes Another Step Closer To Red Sox Debut

Boston Red Sox reliever Liam Hendriks had a solid showing in his first rehab appearance this past Thursday.

The veteran right-hander followed it up with another good outing with Triple-A Worcester on Sunday to take a step closer to returning to the major leagues.

Hendriks once again worked the first inning against the Columbus Clippers at Polar Park and he didn’t yield a run or a hit, while striking out one and walking one. He threw 10 of his 18 pitches for strikes.

Hendriks battled to be Boston’s closer during spring training, but after a bumpy exhibition slate — the three-time All-Star posted a 9.95 ERA and 2.21 WHIP across 6 1/3 innings — he knew he lost out on the job to Aroldis Chapman. Hendriks, who began the season on the injured list due to right elbow inflammation, then needed an injection in his elbow to help with a nerve issue nearly two weeks ago.

The two scoreless appearances with Worcester from Hendriks are encouraging and he could be in line to join the Red Sox in the near future. He’ll most likely slot into a setup role upon his long-awaited arrival in Boston’s bullpen.

The Red Sox signed Hendriks last offseason but he never pitched for Boston as he recovered from Tommy John surgery. The next time Hendriks is on a big-league mound, it will be his first time pitching in the majors in nearly two years.