Today, one of baseball’s most revered figures made an emotional announcement: Kyle Hendricks will officially hang up his gloves after the 2025 season, ending a glorious journey that is filled with respect and lasting memories.
In a statement sent to the media, Hendricks said:
“After all that this game has given me, it is time for me to retire. I am proud of what I have accomplished, especially with the Cubs in 2016. Now, I want to pass the torch. Thank you to all the fans who have followed me – this game is my family, and I am grateful for every moment.”
At age 35, Hendricks opted to sign a one-year contract with the Los Angeles Angels to continue his fight for one last season. But when the team was officially eliminated from the playoff race, he confirmed: this season would be his farewell on the MLB field.
More than just a familiar face, Hendricks became an icon for the Chicago Cubs, especially after the 2016 season — when he played a major role in breaking the team’s 108-year championship curse.
In Game 7 of that year’s World Series, Hendricks’ name was etched as a hero: calm, steadfast, and full of courage.
Hendricks’ career statistics are truly impressive: 105 wins — 91 losses, 3.79 ERA, with 1,365 strikeouts in 307 starts.
Although the final years of his career were somewhat more difficult — especially after 2020 — he still maintained his form and fighting spirit.
In his final season, Hendricks recorded 8 wins — 10 losses, a 4.79 ERA, and 106 strikeouts in 159.2 innings.
Hendricks’ farewell was not just a personal decision — it was a story of gratitude, of the journey from the early days of pitching to the pinnacle of fame. For every Cubs fan, baseball lover everywhere, this was a moment of both sadness and appreciation: sadness for losing a trusted “keeper,” but appreciation for leaving the field peacefully, without competing, but still remaining the same person.
Although Hendricks is no longer on the field, the impressions, the moments of crying after a victory, the calmness on the mound, and the love for the ball — all will live forever in the memories of fans.
And as he says, “this game is family” — for Hendricks, that’s not just a word, it’s a testament to the fact that he lived out his role: player, teammate, icon, legend.
Kyle Hendricks – thank you for every moment. May the next chapter be filled with peace and pride.
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