The Chicago Cubs have agreed to a minor league contract with veteran reliever Liam Hendriks, giving the 37-year-old another opportunity to return to the majors. Hendriks, released by the Minnesota Twins on March 20 after a difficult spring training, joins an NL Central-leading team facing significant bullpen injuries. The right-hander has accumulated 116 career saves over 14 seasons.

Hendriks brings substantial experience despite recent struggles. The Australian pitcher posted a 6.59 ERA in 14 games with Boston last season before hip inflammation ended his year. His career highlights include 114 saves from 2019-22 with the Athletics and White Sox. Hendriks overcame non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis after the 2022 season.

The Cubs currently have multiple relievers on the injured list, including Caleb Thielbar, Hunter Harvey, and Riley Martin. Hendriks previously underwent Tommy John surgery in 2023 after being limited to just five appearances that year. The agreement gives the right-hander a chance to prove his effectiveness to Chicago's coaching staff.