A distinguished MLB pitcher in a Chicago Cubs uniform, thoughtfully studying a game plan on the mound, exuding intelligence and calm precision, in the style of a classic baseball card portrait.
A distinguished MLB pitcher in a Chicago Cubs uniform, thoughtfully studying a game plan on the mound, exuding intelligence and calm precision, in the style of a classic baseball card portrait.

Kyle Hendricks: The Professor's Distinguished MLB Career

Kyle Hendricks, affectionately known as "The Professor" throughout his baseball career, established himself as one of the most cerebral and effective pitchers of his generation during his 12-year Major League Baseball tenure.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence

Hendricks began his professional journey after being drafted by the Texas Rangers in the eighth round of the 2011 MLB Draft. He was later traded to the Chicago Cubs in 2012, where he would spend the majority of his career and make his most significant impact.

The right-handed pitcher made his MLB debut with the Cubs in 2014 and quickly established himself as a reliable starter. His breakout season came in 2016 when he led all of Major League Baseball with a 2.13 ERA, earning him a fourth-place finish in the National League Cy Young Award voting.

2016 World Series Championship

Hendricks played a pivotal role in the Chicago Cubs' historic 2016 World Series championship, which ended the franchise's 108-year championship drought. His performance during the postseason was particularly memorable, including a dominant outing in Game 6 of the National League Championship Series where he pitched 7.1 scoreless innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers to clinch the pennant.

In the World Series against the Cleveland Indians, Hendricks started Game 3 and delivered another strong performance, helping set the stage for the Cubs' eventual comeback victory in the series.

Pitching Style and Legacy

Known for his exceptional command and cerebral approach to pitching, Hendricks relied on precision rather than overpowering velocity. His pitching repertoire featured a sinking fastball that typically sat in the high-80s, complemented by an effective changeup and curveball. This approach earned him the nickname "The Professor" for his intelligent, methodical approach to attacking hitters.

Throughout his career with the Cubs, Hendricks consistently ranked among the league leaders in fewest walks per nine innings, demonstrating his exceptional control and pitch efficiency.

Career Milestones and Final Season

Hendricks achieved numerous career milestones, including recording his 1,000th career strikeout in 2021. His final season came in 2025 with the Los Angeles Angels, where he reached the significant milestone of his 100th career win on June 7, 2025, against the Seattle Mariners.

Career Statistics

Over his 12-year MLB career, Hendricks compiled an impressive record:

Retirement

Hendricks announced his retirement from professional baseball on November 10, 2025, concluding a distinguished career marked by consistency, intelligence, and championship success. His retirement marked the end of an era for Cubs fans who had watched him develop from a promising young pitcher into one of the franchise's most reliable and respected starters.

Hendricks will be remembered not only for his on-field accomplishments but also for his professionalism, leadership, and the cerebral approach that defined his pitching style throughout his memorable career.

The prompt for this was: kyle hendricks

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