White Sox, Hendriks agree to 4-year, $54M deal

The Chicago White Sox found a new closer.

Chicago and star reliever Liam Hendriks agreed to a four-year, $54M contract, the team announced Friday.

"With the acquisition of Liam, we are adding another premium talent to our core group of players," White Sox general manager and senior vice president Rick Hahn said in a statement. "Liam is someone of outstanding character and makeup who will be an asset both on the field and in the clubhouse.

"He gives Tony (La Russa) and Ethan (Katz) another weapon to make our bullpen even deeper and more versatile."

Hendriks will earn $11 million in 2021, $13 million in 2022, and $14 million in 2023. The team holds a $15-million option for 2024 or a $15-million buyout.

The 31-year-old posted a 1.79 ERA with 39 saves and 161 strikeouts in 110 1/3 innings over the last two seasons with the Oakland Athletics.

Prior to adding Hendriks, Chicago added starting pitcher Lance Lynn and outfielder Adam Eaton after making the playoffs last season for the first time since 2008.

The Toronto Blue Jays, Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, and Houston Astros were also reportedly interested in Hendriks throughout the winter.