Red Sox Manager Alex Cora Announces Liam Hendriks as the Closer
In a significant shift to the bullpen hierarchy, Boston Red Sox manager Alex Cora has officially named Liam Hendriks as the team’s closer for the 2025 MLB season. Hendriks, a veteran right-hander with a proven track record in high-leverage situations, brings a wealth of experience to the back end of the Red Sox’s pitching staff.
The Decision to Name Hendriks Closer
Cora’s decision to hand Hendriks the closer role comes after a series of strong performances during spring training. The 34-year-old has consistently shown his ability to handle pressure-filled moments, having spent several seasons as a closer for the Chicago White Sox and Oakland Athletics before joining the Red Sox. Known for his electric fastball and devastating slider, Hendriks has been one of the most dominant relievers in baseball over the past few years.
“Liam has earned this opportunity,” Cora said during a press conference following the announcement. “We’ve seen his stuff and his mentality in high-leverage situations. He’s a competitor, and we believe he’s the right guy to handle the ninth inning for us.”
Hendriks’ Impact on the Red Sox Bullpen
The Red Sox bullpen has seen its share of challenges in recent years, with the team struggling to find a consistent and reliable closer. In 2024, the Red Sox used a closer-by-committee approach, with mixed results. But the addition of Hendriks, who boasts 115 career saves, brings an air of stability to the role.
Hendriks, who has made multiple All-Star appearances, is known for his ability to close games with conviction. In 2023, he posted a 2.81 ERA and a 1.02 WHIP with the White Sox, striking out 92 batters in 64.2 innings. His track record in high-pressure environments, particularly in the postseason, makes him a perfect fit for the Red Sox, who are looking to contend for a playoff spot in 2025.
A Season to Watch
With Hendriks now at the helm of the Red Sox’s bullpen, Cora and the team are hopeful that this stability in the closer role will provide the bullpen with the confidence it needs to perform at a high level. The Red Sox bullpen will have the added luxury of knowing they can rely on Hendriks to finish games, allowing the team’s starting pitchers to focus on getting deep into contests without the pressure of late-game drama.
Hendriks’ fiery demeanor and experience in tight situations will undoubtedly make him an asset, not only on the mound but also as a leader in the clubhouse. His ability to keep calm under pressure, combined with his sharp stuff, will be crucial in the Red Sox’s efforts to return to playoff contention.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season begins, all eyes will be on Liam Hendriks as he takes the mound in the ninth inning to close out games for the Red Sox. With Cora’s confidence in Hendriks and the added stability in the bullpen, the Red Sox are poised to improve on last season’s performance and make a push toward the postseason.
For Red Sox fans, the announcement of Hendriks as the closer offers a sense of optimism. If the 2025 season unfolds as the team hopes, Hendriks’ name could quickly become synonymous with clutch performances in Boston’s long and storied history of baseball.
