A's Liam Hendriks helps fire victims back home in Australia

MESA, Ariz. (AP) — A world away, Liam Hendriks had to do something to help everyone affected by the ravaging fires back home in Australia.

The Oakland Athletics reliever campaigned on social media to do his part for the cause, no matter he grew up on the country's West Coast in Perth where the massive bush fires haven't been as devastating. He made a quick visit this offseason.

On Instagram, Hendriks encouraged contributions to Red Cross Australia. While he fully supported everyone rescuing koala bears and other animals from the flames, he also wanted to make sure the people affected received necessary support.

“Nothing is ever enough but the response was always positive, which is highly unusual for social media regardless of the tack you're taking," Hendriks said before a recent spring training workout. “We got a decent chunk of change that we sent over there. Hopefully it helps make a difference, but at the end of the day there's only so much we can do from over here. The awareness is the biggest part we're trying to raise."

Nobody is surprised to see Hendriks helping out. Everything he does is with a passion and care — known well for his thoughtful work off the field as much as his intensity on it.

Hendriks' reliability in the ninth inning has earned him a solid reputation, too. But you won't hear Hendriks say it. He plans to earn the job again.

“I don't want to be complacent,” he said. “Going out there and making sure I put everything on the line every night is a big thing for me.”

The Oakland closer received a nice raise when he signed a $5.3 million, one-year contract last month to avoid salary arbitration.

The 31-year-old Hendriks is approaching this season as if he has everything to prove once again. He plans to take the mound each opportunity...

source https://www.chron.com/news/article/A-s-Liam-Hendriks-helps-fire-victims-back-hom-in-15061668.php