The Chicago Cubs are gearing up for another shot at October glory. One of the central figures in their historic 2016 World Series title, Kyle Hendricks, might be closing the book on his career.
Reports say veteran pitcher Kyle Hendricks, now with the Los Angeles Angels, is considering retirement after the 2024 season. For Cubs fans, memories of his calm dominance on the mound during that magical postseason—and his role in ending a 108-year championship drought—still feel fresh.
This piece looks back on Hendricks’ career, his postseason heroics, and the legacy he leaves behind in Wrigleyville.
The 2016 World Series: A Defining Moment
The Cubs’ 2016 championship run was more than just a baseball story. It became one of the most defining moments in modern sports history.
After more than a century of heartbreak, Chicago finally hoisted the Commissioner’s Trophy. Heroes emerged at every turn—Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, Ben Zobrist—but the quiet, composed presence of Kyle Hendricks on the mound mattered just as much.
Hendricks’ Postseason Heroics
In the Fall Classic, Hendricks delivered when it mattered most. He started two World Series games and gave up just a single run over nine innings.
His Game 3 outing—where he pitched brilliantly despite a narrow 1-0 loss—was followed by a gutsy Game 7 start. That performance set the tone for the Cubs’ dramatic 8-7 extra-inning victory over the Cleveland Indians.
Hendricks showed poise under immense pressure. His exceptional command and knack for keeping hitters off balance stood out, especially in those pivotal October games.
A Career Defined by Consistency
Over 11 seasons with the Cubs, Hendricks built a reputation as one of baseball’s most dependable starters. They called him “The Professor” for his cerebral approach to pitching.
He posted a career 3.68 ERA and racked up a 1,259-to-364 strikeout-to-walk ratio. His standout 2016 campaign? He led all of Major League Baseball with a sparkling 2.13 ERA—pretty impressive, honestly.
Not Just a Power Pitcher
Hendricks was never a flamethrower. He leaned on impeccable location, deceptive changeups, and a deep understanding of hitter tendencies.
This craft-based style drew comparisons to some of the great control pitchers in MLB history. It let him stay effective deep into his career, even as others faded.
A Possible Farewell Season
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reports Hendricks has told friends he plans to retire after the 2024 season. Now wearing a Los Angeles Angels uniform, he’s closing out what might be his final year in the majors.
However this season ends, Hendricks’ contributions to baseball—and especially to the Chicago Cubs—are undeniable.
Legacy in Chicago
By breaking the Cubs’ century-long championship curse, Hendricks earned a permanent place in the hearts of fans. His role in 2016 will always be remembered for more than numbers.
It was about the way he carried himself, the calm assurance he showed on the grandest stage, and the hope he helped restore to a long-suffering fan base. That’s the kind of legacy you just can’t measure.
Hendricks’ Place in Cubs History
When people talk about the 2016 Cubs, they’ll mention those wild home runs and clutch moments. But let’s be real—there’s no forgetting the guy who calmly set everything up for history to happen.
For Cubs fans, Hendricks isn’t just another player. He’s this symbol of grit and second chances.
- World Series Performance: 1 run allowed over 9 innings in two starts.
- Career Stats with Cubs: 3.68 ERA, 1,259 strikeouts, 364 walks.
- 2016 Season: Led MLB with 2.13 ERA.
- Team Impact: Key figure in ending a 108-year title drought.
Maybe this is Hendricks’ last year in a Cubs uniform, maybe not. Either way, his story’s all about brains, calm under fire, and just doing the job.
In Chicago, he’s always going to be “The Professor”—the guy who showed everyone what patience and perseverance can really do. That championship? Yeah, he helped make it real.
Here is the source article for this story: Cubs rumors: 2016 World Series hero ‘informs friends’ he plans to retire
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