Kyle Hendricks's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: August 14, 2025

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Kyle Hendricks. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

Kyle Hendricks is an American professional baseball pitcher currently playing for the Los Angeles Angels. He debuted in MLB in 2014 with the Chicago Cubs. He achieved significant success with the Cubs, notably leading MLB in earned run average (ERA) in 2016. That same year, he played a key role in helping the Cubs win the World Series, ending their 108-year championship drought. Known for his command and control rather than velocity, Hendricks has established himself as a notable pitcher in MLB.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1938: Last Cub to lead the Majors in ERA prior to Hendricks

In 1938, before Kyle Hendricks in 2016, a Cub last led the majors in ERA.

1945: Last Cub to lead the NL in ERA prior to Hendricks

In 1945, before Kyle Hendricks in 2016, a Cub last led the National League in ERA.

1974: Last Cubs Opening Day Shutout Before Hendricks

In 1974, Bill Bonham pitched the last Opening Day shutout for the Cubs before Kyle Hendricks in 2020.

2013: Last MLB Opening Day Shutout Before Hendricks

In 2013, Clayton Kershaw pitched the last Opening Day shutout in MLB before Kyle Hendricks in 2020.

2013: Minor League Pitcher of the Year

In 2013, Kyle Hendricks began the season with the Tennessee Smokies and was later promoted to the Iowa Cubs. He was also named the Cubs' minor league pitcher of the year.

2014: PCL Pitcher of the Week

In 2014, Kyle Hendricks began the season with Iowa and was named the PCL's Pitcher of the Week for May 12–18.

2016: Led Baseball in ERA

In 2016, Kyle Hendricks finished the season with a 16-8 record and a 2.13 ERA, leading all of baseball. This was the first time a Cub had led the National League in ERA since 1945 and the majors since 1938.

2016: Won the World Series

In 2016, Kyle Hendricks helped send the Chicago Cubs to their first World Series since 1945 and won the World Series over the Cleveland Indians, ending their 108-year title drought.

2016: World Series Win and ERA Leader

In 2016, Kyle Hendricks led Major League Baseball in earned run average (ERA) and also won the World Series with the Chicago Cubs.

July 24, 2020: Complete-Game Shutout

On July 24, 2020, Kyle Hendricks pitched a complete-game shutout in the Cubs' season opener against the Brewers, throwing 103 pitches with three hits allowed, nine strikeouts, and no walks. It was the first Opening Day shutout by a Cubs pitcher since 1974 and in MLB since 2013.

2020: 2020 Season Stats and Cy Young Voting

In 2020, Kyle Hendricks had a 6-5 record with a 2.88 ERA, led the NL in fewest walks per 9 IP (0.885) and strikeout/walk ratio (8.000). He also finished ninth in Cy Young voting.

April 18, 2021: Home Runs Allowed in First Inning

On April 18, 2021, in a game against the Atlanta Braves, Kyle Hendricks allowed four home runs in the first inning, becoming the first pitcher in Cubs history to do so.