One of baseball’s most tireless advocates for compassion, community and change, Liam Hendriks is not just a standout player; he is a model of purpose-driven leadership who uses his platform to uplift others, champion critical causes and create lasting impact well beyond the field.
Liam is again on pace to donate more than $750,000, his annual custom, to charitable causes, focusing his giving on two deeply personal areas: cancer research and treatment, and support for veterans and their families. But for Liam, philanthropy isn’t limited to monetary donations. He actively seeks out ways to amplify the voices of those impacted by these causes -- lending his time, his story and his platform to advance awareness and compassion.
In 2025, Liam has already made 65 community appearances, totaling 51 hours of direct service. Whether visiting patients in local hospitals, spending time with cancer survivors, meeting with military families or volunteering at Red Sox community events, Liam is present and intentional. His involvement goes beyond appearances: He creates space for real connection. He listens. He shares. He gives of himself.
That sense of connection is especially visible on game days. During pregame ceremonies, Liam can often be found chatting with families on the warning track, learning about their programs, their passions and what connects them to baseball and Fenway Park. His ability to make every interaction feel personal and genuine speaks to the kind of ambassador he is -- not just for the Red Sox, but for the game itself.
His personal battle with Non-Hodgkin lymphoma has deepened his understanding of the power of empathy and visibility. When Stand Up To Cancer approached him to participate in a national campaign in partnership with Major League Baseball, Liam immediately accepted. By sharing his story in private support groups or high-profile awareness campaigns, he recognizes the influence he holds -- and uses it to inspire others facing similar battles.
His service is not transactional; it is personal and consistent. When fans reach out to share their experiences or offer thanks, Liam often responds by sending care packages or inviting them to be his guest at Fenway Park. As a quieter gesture of gratitude, he and his wife, Kristi, are also known for purchasing lunch for the Red Sox front office -- an acknowledgement of the dedication required across all departments to support the grind of 81 home games each season.
Liam’s legacy of service is not limited to one team, one city or one moment. He has repeatedly demonstrated that community engagement is not an obligation but a calling. He leads by example, acting with humility, sincerity and conviction.
What makes Liam an ideal nominee is the totality of his commitment. He doesn’t wait to be asked; he volunteers. He doesn’t serve for recognition; he serves because he believes in using his platform for good. By comforting patients, advocating for cancer research, standing alongside veterans and uplifting underrepresented communities, Liam approaches each opportunity with the same intensity and intention he brings to the mound.
Much like Roberto Clemente, Liam defines greatness not only by performance but by purpose. His impact reaches across cities and seasons, built on years of sustained action and human connection. He reminds us that the true measure of a player lies not in their stats, but in their ability to uplift others.
Liam Hendriks is the embodiment of integrity and compassion. His commitment to giving back reflects the highest ideals of Major League Baseball and makes him a most deserving nominee for the 2025 Roberto Clemente Award.