White Sox closer Liam Hendriks was named American League Reliever of the Month for May on Wednesday, the right-hander’s third career monthly honor.
Hendriks had an ERA of 0.00 and was 8-for-8 in save opportunities. He struck out 19 in 11‰ innings covering 13 appearances and led the AL in saves, helping the Sox go 19-10.
Signed to a $54 million deal in the offseason, Hendriks won monthly awards in each of the last two seasons with the Athletics. He is the second Sox reliever to win the honor after Bobby Jenks in June 2006 and June 2010.
In May, Hendriks earned saves in his last four appearances. He allowed two unearned runs, two extra-base hits and two walks. Against the last 16 batters he faced, Hendriks didn’t allow a hit, walked one and struck out 10.
“It’s a nice feeling to have with the back end of the bullpen like that,” manager Tony La Russa said, “especially when he comes out, filling up the zone and attacking guys. He makes us a lot more comfortable.”
During the Sox’ four-game sweep against the Orioles last weekend, Hendriks became the first Sox reliever to get both saves of a doubleheader and one the next day since Bobby Thigpen in 1991.
