SAN ANTONIO — When Cubs fans packed into Wrigley Field in late September to give right-hander Kyle Hendricks a storybook send-off, he was expected to land with another team in free agency. That suspicion became reality Wednesday, when he reportedly signed a one-year, $2.5 million deal with the Angels.
Jumping on an early offer, the California native landed with a team that will be relying on young pitching, where his leadership could provide value even beyond his own performance. In an 11-year major-league career, Hendricks has only pitched for the Cubs.
He was the last player remaining from the Cubs’ 2016 World Series champions. His legacy includes the 2016 National League ERA title and an impressive postseason résumé, highlighted by 7⅓ scoreless innings in Game 6 of the NL Championship Series against the Dodgers to win the pennant.
Relying on a devastating changeup and elite command, “The Professor” became known for his steady demeanor and clubhouse impact. In recent seasons, he battled a lengthy shoulder injury, and his consistency wavered. But he also proved to be adaptable.
“I hope that there’s just an opportunity with someone,” Hendricks said at the end of the season. “Whoever it may be, just excited to take full advantage of it. You never know, things could come full circle. You could always bounce around different teams and come back. The door is never closed.”
Even after Hendricks wraps up his playing career, the Cubs would jump at the chance to bring him back in another capacity.