Kyle Hendricks Announces Retirement After 12 MLB Seasons

Kyle Hendricks, the celebrated pitcher known as 'The Professor,' is officially retiring after 12 major league seasons, with the majority of his career spent with the Chicago Cubs. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, Hendricks, now 35 years old, achieved a commendable 3.79 ERA over his career, which included 11 seasons with the Cubs and one with the Los Angeles Angels. His time with the Cubs was highlighted by his key role in their 2016 World Series championship team, where he not only thrived as a pitcher but also claimed the ERA title that season, finishing with a 2.13 ERA, the best in the National League. Deadspin reports that Hendricks went 16-8 in 2016 and placed third in the NL Cy Young Award voting, further solidifying his status as a top-tier pitcher during that period.

His defining postseason performances in 2016 included a crucial Game 6 of the NL Championship Series, where he delivered 7 1/3 shutout innings against the Los Angeles Dodgers, propelling the Cubs to the World Series. In the World Series against Cleveland, he maintained a 1.00 ERA across two starts, contributing significantly to the Cubs’ historic championship win. Hendricks expressed gratitude for his time with the Cubs, stating, "To play here in Wrigley Field, I'm just such a lucky guy," during his farewell appearance, where he received a standing ovation after a brilliant outing against the Cincinnati Reds that concluded his Cubs career.

His professional journey began when he was drafted by the Texas Rangers in the eighth round of the 2011 MLB Draft out of Dartmouth. He was later traded to the Cubs in 2012 as part of a deal involving Ryan Dempster. After his long tenure in Chicago, Hendricks spent the 2025 season with the Angels, where he posted a 4.76 ERA in 31 starts. According to the Chicago Sun-Times, despite a challenging final season, Hendricks' contributions to the game and the Cubs franchise are indelible, as he is remembered not only for his skills but also for his demeanor on the mound, which contrasted with the industry's increasing focus on velocity. Cubs pitching coach Tommy Hottovy noted, "He's on my Mount Rushmore of Cubs pitchers," highlighting the respect and admiration Hendricks garnered throughout his career. Hendricks plans to retire as a player but leaves behind a legacy that will resonate with fans and future generations of baseball players.