The Los Angeles Angels have signed right-handed pitcher Kyle Hendricks to a one-year contract worth $2.5 million, solidifying their roster ahead of the new season.
Hendricks has had a successful career in Major League Baseball, spending his entire tenure with the Chicago Cubs. Over 11 seasons, he tallied an impressive 97 wins against 81 losses, maintaining a 3.68 earned run average (ERA) through 270 starts and six appearances in relief.
Notably, he was the last player left from the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series-winning team, which marked the franchise’s first championship in over a century, dating back to 1908.
In a corresponding move, the Angels designated right-hander Ryan Miller for assignment in order to clear a spot for Hendricks on their 40-man roster.
Hendricks made his mark in 2016, earning an All-Star selection after posting a record of 16-8 and leading MLB with a stellar 2.13 ERA. He played a pivotal role in the 2016 World Series, pitching 4 1/3 scoreless innings during a tough 1-0 loss in Game 3 against the Cleveland Indians, and contributed 4 2/3 innings in an intense 8-7 victory in the deciding Game 7.
As he approaches his 35th birthday on December 7, Hendricks faced some challenges in the previous season, finishing with a record of 4-12 and a 6.27 ERA across 24 starts. However, he also displayed a strong performance in a brief stint in relief, posting a 3.14 ERA over five appearances from late May to mid-June. This signing comes after the completion of a hefty $70 million deal spanning five years.
In his final appearance with the Cubs on September 28, Hendricks pitched 7 1/3 innings, only allowing two hits against the Cincinnati Reds at Wrigley Field. His performance drew applause from the crowd, and he acknowledged the fans by coming out of the dugout to wave as a farewell gesture.
Hendricks’ journey to professional baseball began at Dartmouth College, and he is originally from Mission Viejo, California, where he attended Capistrano Valley High School, located approximately 25 miles from Angel Stadium.