White Sox closer Liam Hendriks announced last night that he had recently been diagnosed with non-Hodgkins’s lymphoma and would begin treatment this week.  A team statement from general manager Rick Hahn said that they do not expect to have any updates on his playing status prior to Opening Day.

This is a big blow for the White Sox, both on the field and off.  Hendriks, 33, has saved 75 games over the past two seasons, helping to stabilize the bullpen.  Off the field, he’s considered a team leader who, along with his wife, has become extremely active in charitable causes throughout the Chicago area.

Hopefully, Hendriks takes well to the medication and is able to beat this cancer fully.  The baseball will take care of itself.