Sam Hentges
YEARTEAMGGSCGSHOWLSIPHitsERSOBBHRERA
2022Wowies330001011.1159101107.15
2023Wowies47000262252.23017185752.91
2024Wowies500010017.013851814.24
2025Wowies20001001.1000200.00
MLB Player Data
DateNewsComment
Feb 18 2025The Guardians placed Hentges (shoulder) on the 60-day injured list Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges' move to the 60-day IL was fully expected, as the left-hander is in line to miss the entire 2025 season after undergoing surgery last September to repair the capsule and labrum in his throwing shoulder. His spot on the 40-man roster will go to right-hander Jakob Junis, whom Cleveland signed to a one-year deal Sunday.
Nov 22 2024Hentges (shoulder) agreed to a one-year, $1.337 million contract with the Guardians on Friday to avoid arbitration, Robert Murray of FanSided.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges is set to miss the entire 2025 campaign after undergoing surgery on his left shoulder in September. His new contract will ensure he remains with the Guardians organization for the duration of his rehab process, and the 28-year-old will look to return for the start of 2026.
Sep 10 2024Hentges will undergo surgery on Sept. 18 to repair the capsule and labrum in his left shoulder, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges is expected to need 12-to-14 months to recover, so it's unlikely he'll be ready to pitch in a game until 2026. The lefty has been excellent since being moved to a full-time relief role in 2022, posting a 2.93 ERA and 155:42 K:BB over 138 innings. Hentges is making $1.16 million in 2024 and will be eligible for salary arbitration for a second time this offseason.
Aug 19 2024The Guardians transferred Hentges (shoulder) to the 60-day injured list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has been on the shelf since July 12 due to left shoulder swelling and was removed from his rehab assignment Aug. 9 with soreness in the shoulder. The change means Hentges won't be eligible to return until Sept. 10. Anthony Gose will take Hentges' spot on the 40-man roster.
Aug 9 2024Hentges has been pulled off his rehab assignment due to renewed soreness in his left shoulder, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges had made four rehab appearances, but in his last one he allowed three runs without recording an out. The left-hander will be re-examined by doctors to determine the next steps in his recovery, but it sounds as if the Guardians aren't expecting the reliever to be available any time soon. Hentges has been on the 15-day injured list since July 12.
Aug 5 2024Hentges (shoulder) is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A Columbus on Tuesday, Chris Assenheimer of the Elyria Chronicle-Telegram reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges will throw in a game for the first time since being placed on the 15-day injured list July 12 with shoulder inflammation. It's unclear how many rehab outings Hentges will need before rejoining the Guardians bullpen, but he should be expected back sometime in mid-August.
Jul 12 2024The Guardians placed Hentges on the 15-day injured list Friday due to left shoulder inflammation, Joe Noga of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has appeared in 25 games after missing the first month of the season and owns a 3.04 ERA with nine holds across 23.2 innings. However, he'll be shelved until late July due to inflammation in his throwing shoulder. Xzavion Curry was recalled from Triple-A Columbus in a corresponding move.
May 17 2024The Guardians activated Hentges from the paternity leave list Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges missed a series against the Rangers while spending time with his growing family. He'll be back in the Guardians' bullpen for their weekend set versus the Twins.
May 13 2024The Guardians placed Hentges on the paternity list Monday, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges will likely miss the entire three-game set against the Rangers before rejoining the club this weekend for its series versus the Twins. Peter Strzelecki was recalled from Triple-A Columbus and will assume Hentges' spot in Cleveland's bullpen.
May 6 2024The Guardians activated Hentges (finger) from the 15-day injured list Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cleveland optioned right-hander Peter Strzelecki to Triple-A Columbus to clear room in the bullpen and on the 26-man active roster for Hentges, who opened the season on the IL with left middle finger inflammation. Hentges was added back to the 26-man active roster after he wrapped up a stellar six-appearance rehab assignment between Triple-A Columbus and Double-A Akron in which he struck out seven and allowed just five baserunners over 6.2 scoreless frames. He posted a 3.61 ERA and gathered 15 holds over 56 appearances with the big club in 2023 and should slot back in as a key part of the bridge to close Emmanuel Clase.
Apr 19 2024Hentges (finger) will begin a rehab assignment with Double-A Akron on Friday, Tom Withers of the Associated Press reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges began facing hitters earlier this week, and he's now ready to get into game action. He dealt with a swollen finger during spring training and has been out for over a month. Once he's ready to join the major-league roster, he'll be tasked with joining a competitive group that is second in the majors with a 2.29 bullpen ERA.
Apr 13 2024Hentges (finger) is scheduled to resume throwing live batting practice sessions early next week, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges had initially been slated to face hitters Friday, but the live session ended up getting pushed back due to poor weather in Cleveland. Once Hentges throws at least two BP sessions, he'll presumably head out on a minor-league rehab assignment. The 27-year-old reliever opened the season on the 15-day injured list due to left middle finger inflammation.
Mar 29 2024The Guardians placed Hentges (finger) on the 15-day injured list Thursday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: According to MLB.com, Hentges traveled with the Guardians on their season-opening road trip, despite being placed on the IL due to left middle finger swelling. Hentges' inclusion on the road trip could imply that he's in store for a brief stay on the IL, as he already resumed throwing before camp ended and may soon be ready to head out on a minor-league rehab assignment.
Mar 22 2024Hentges (finger) will begin the season on the injured list, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: There's no word yet on a specific diagnosis for Hentges' finger injury, but it's apparently bad enough that a stint on the IL will be required. It's a blow to the Guardians' bullpen, as he boasts a 2.91 ERA and 128:37 K:BB over 114.1 innings across the last two seasons.
Mar 16 2024Manager Stephen Vogt said Saturday that Hentges (finger) will not throw for a few days, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges will avoid throwing for the next few days while the team gathers more information about the swelling in his left finger. Hentges has struggled in spring training, allowing three runs on six hits and three walks while striking out five over 4.0 innings.
Mar 14 2024Hentges is dealing with some swelling in his finger and will visit with a doctor Thursday, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It's not clear how long the finger has been an issue, but Hentges hasn't been great this spring, allowing three runs on six hits and three walks over four innings. A more specific diagnosis and timetable should be available after Thursday's examination.
Mar 5 2024Hentges has allowed three runs on four hits and three walks while striking out three over three Cactus League innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has a shaky grasp on a high-leverage role, so these aren't great results for the southpaw. He had a 3.61 ERA, 1.36 WHIP and 56:18 K:BB over 52.1 innings last season, with all of those marks being worse than his results in 2022. Hentges has 23 holds over the last two years and will likely still see some late-inning work if he can get himself on track in April.
Jan 11 2024Hentges signed a one-year, $1.6 million contract with the Guardians on Thursday to avoid arbitration, Paul Hoynes of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges broke out in 2022 after shifting to a full-time relief role. He took a moderate step back in 2023 by posting a 3.61 ERA and 1.36 WHIP across 52.1 innings, but he still managed a 17 K-BB%. After recording 15 holds last season, Hentges should have the chance to serve in a high-leverage role once again in 2024.
Sep 3 2023Hentges (3-2) allowed an unearned run on one hit over one inning to earn the extra-innings win over the Rays on Saturday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges allowed a run to score on a sacrifice fly, but the Guardians rallied back for two runs in the bottom of the 11th inning to earn him the win. The unearned run Saturday is the only run he's given up over his last 15 innings, a span in which he has a 19:4 K:BB and two holds. For the season, Hentges has a 4.32 ERA, 1.42 WHIP and 44:16 K:BB through 41.2 innings with 10 holds and two blown saves. While he's been sharp lately, the Guardians' waiver claims from the Angels make the back end of Cleveland's bullpen quite crowded, so Hentges may be seen more often in middle-relief assignments.
Aug 23 2023Hentges (2-2) struck out the side in a perfect inning to earn the win Tuesday over the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has quietly gotten his season back on track with a 9.2-inning scoreless streak, during which he's posted a 13:3 K:BB while allowing 11 hits and collecting two holds. The southpaw worked the top of the seventh inning Tuesday, and the Guardians rallied ahead a half-inning later. He's now at a 4.95 ERA, 1.49 WHIP and 38:15 K:BB with 10 holds and two blown saves over 36.1 innings. With Emmanuel Clase and Trevor Stephan holding down late-inning roles, Hentges is unlikely to see consistent setup work.
Jul 20 2023Hentges (1-2) allowed four runs on three hits and a walk in one-third of an inning to take the loss Wednesday versus the Pirates. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges entered with one on and one out, but the Pirates were able to rally against him. This was the fourth time in eight appearances in July that he's allowed multiple runs. The rough stretch has inflated his ERA to 6.31 with a 1.44 WHIP and 23:12 K:BB over 25.2 innings this season. While he's collected eight holds this season, Hentges may be kept away from high-leverage situations while he's struggling.
Jul 15 2023Hentges (1-1) took the loss Friday versus the Rangers. He failed to record an out while allowing three runs on two hits and a walk. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges was tasked with protecting a one-run lead in the seventh inning but instead created a mess that saw the Guardians trailing by four by the end of the frame. The southpaw has yet to have an outing in which he's allowed a single run -- he's given up multiple runs seven times, including in each of his last three appearances, while adding 18 scoreless outings. He's at a 5.40 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and 22:11 K:BB with eight holds through 23.1 innings this season.
Jul 3 2023Hentges (1-0) struck out two over a perfect inning to earn the extra-inning win over the Cubs on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges' usage in the 10th inning would typically be scored as a save, but the official scorer credited him with the win rather than Emmanuel Clase, who allowed four runs in the ninth. Hentges picked up seven holds over his first 12 appearances, but a shaky stretch in June has seen him receive less high-leverage work lately. He's pitched to a 2.91 ERA, 1.06 WHIP and 20:8 K:BB through 21.2 innings.
May 5 2023Hentges was activated from the 15-day injured list Friday, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges will join the Guardians' bullpen Friday night against the Twins after missing the first five weeks of the 2023 regular season due to shoulder inflammation. The 26-year-old lefty broke out to the tune of a 2.32 ERA and 72:19 K:BB over 62 innings of relief with Cleveland in 2022.
May 4 2023The Guardians are expected to activate Hentges (shoulder) from the 15-day injured list ahead of Friday's series opener with the Twins, MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has been on the shelf all season with left shoulder inflammation, but he looks ready to make his 2023 debut for the Guardians after recently completing a two-week rehab assignment. Between two appearances at Double-A Akron and three at Triple-A Columbus, Hentges covered 4.2 innings and allowed one earned run on five hits and two walks while striking out four. Once activated from the IL, Hentges should serve as a key left-handed setup option in front of closer Emmanuel Clase.
Mar 30 2023Hentges was placed on the 15-day injured list by the Guardians on Thursday with left shoulder inflammation. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges is making progress but will still be a little while. When healthy, he should be used in a high-leverage role in the Guardians' bullpen.
Mar 9 2023Hentges (shoulder) showed progress in his medical evaluation Wednesday, Paul Hoynes of The Cleveland Plain Dealer reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has been out for a week already with left shoulder inflammation, but manager Terry Francona was encouraged by Wednesday's check-up. "It was really, really encouraging," Francona told mlb.com. "To the point that they're going to let him do dry work and stuff." A stint on the injured list hasn't been ruled out yet, but it doesn't appear Hentges will be out for long even if he misses the start of the season.
Mar 1 2023Guardians manager Terry Francona said Wednesday that Hentges is dealing with left shoulder inflammation and will be re-evaluated on a week-to-week basis, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges was a strong performer for the Cleveland bullpen in 2023, finishing with a 2.32 ERA and 72:19 K:BB over 62 innings in 57 appearances. The Guardians should have a clearer idea regarding his availability for the start of the season within the next couple of issues, but it's not the most encouraging sign that he's being listed as week-to-week rather than day-to-day.
Sep 19 2022Hentges struck out two batters over 2.1 perfect innings and earned a save over Minnesota on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges needed just 20 pitches to quickly retire all seven batters he faced in Monday's blowout win. The 26-year-old lefty has fired 10.2 consecutive scoreless frames while posting a 14:1 K:BB. He lowered his season ERA to 2.51 with a 66:17 K:BB through 52 appearances. Hentges saw his first saw chance of the year Monday and likely won't see many more down the stretch.
Sep 2 2022Hentges walked one and struck out one over two scoreless innings during Friday's 6-1 loss to the Mariners. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges saw a 13.1-inning scoreless streak end Wednesday versus Baltimore, but he was right back at it Friday. The southpaw has impressed as a reliever this year, logging a 2.96 ERA, 1.11 WHIP and 53:16 K:BB across 48.2 innings while adding a 3-2 record and two holds. Despite his development as a starter previously, it's unclear if he's in contention to stretch out late in the year after starters Zach Plesac (hand) and Aaron Civale (forearm) were placed on the injured list Friday. Cody Morris, who made his major-league debut as Friday's starter, also pitched two innings, surrendering three runs (two earned) on four hits and two walks.
Aug 2 2022Hentges (3-2) pitched a perfect 11th inning with one strikeout to earn the win Monday over the Diamondbacks. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges extended his scoreless streak to 5.2 innings over his last five appearances with the clean frame, and Amed Rosario hit a walkoff single for the win. After a rough stretch in late June and early July, Hentges appears to have gotten himself back on track. He owns a 3.55 ERA, 1.18 WHIP and 41:14 K:BB in 38 innings as a middle reliever this year.
Jul 14 2022Hentges (2-2) allowed two runs on three hits and two walks with one strikeout in 1.2 innings, taking the loss Wednesday versus the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges was responsible for both runs the White Sox scored in the sixth inning, and the Guardians' offense couldn't get him off the hook. He's been scored on in seven of his last eight outings, making his strong first two months of the season a distant memory. The southpaw now has a mediocre 4.18 ERA, 1.33 WHIP and 36:14 K:BB across 32.1 innings this year. Eleven of the 15 runs he's allowed this year have come in his last 7.1 frames.
Jul 9 2022Hentges (2-1) allowed a run on two hits and struck out one in one-third of an inning, taking the loss Friday versus the Royals. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges gave up a double to Vinnie Pasquantino and a walkoff single to Michael Taylor. After allowing runs in three of his first 24 appearances, Hentges has given up eight runs in his last five innings across six outings. The southpaw has seen his ERA spike from 1.44 to 3.60 during this slump, and he owns a 1.13 WHIP and 34:11 K:BB in 30 innings overall. He's added one hold, but he'll likely remain in a low-leverage role until he can get back on track.
Jun 29 2022Hentges (2-0) picked up the win in the first game of Tuesday's doubleheader versus the Twins. He allowed a run on one hit and struck out two in one inning. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges gave up a go-ahead solo home run to Carlos Correa in the top of the eighth inning, but the Guardians regained the lead in their half of the frame. This marked the second consecutive outing in which Hentges has given up a run, something he hadn't done all season. He's still fairly strong with a 2.33 ERA, 0.93 WHIP and 31:7 K:BB in 27 innings. The southpaw's strong pitching could see him earn some high-leverage looks on a matchup basis, but he's picked up only one hold in 26 appearances.
Jun 22 2022Hentges (1-0) walked one in a scoreless inning to earn the win Wednesday over the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges pitched the eighth inning, and the Guardians rallied for four runs to take the lead in the ninth. He ended up with the win after Emmanuel Clase locked down the save. Through eight appearances in June, Hentges has allowed two runs, six hits and three walks with eight strikeouts. He's posted a stellar 1.50 ERA, 0.79 WHIP and 27:5 K:BB with one hold in 24 innings overall.
Jun 19 2022Hentges struck out one in a perfect inning in Saturday's 7-1 loss to the Dodgers. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges was the Guardians' most effective pitcher Saturday. He's given up runs in only three of his 21 appearances this season, and he's allowed multiple runs only once. That shakes out to a 1.64 ERA, 0.73 WHIP and 27:4 K:BB with one hold in 22 innings, though he's yet to get a real taste of high-leverage assignments despite the solid overall numbers. He's also posted a 2.54 FIP, which indicates he might experience a little regression, but it's not likely to be severe.
Jun 5 2022Hentges walked two in one-third of a scoreless inning to earn a hold in Sunday's 3-2 win over the Orioles. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has seen limited usage, making just four appearances since May 13. He's covered just 2.1 innings in those outings. The usage is puzzling, as the southpaw has been solid with a 1.10 ERA, 0.73 WHIP and 19:2 K:BB across 16.1 innings in 16 appearances. Hentges is likely ticketed for low-leverage work, and it seems unlikely he'd be an option as a potential spot starter given that he hasn't logged more than three outs in an appearance since May 4.
May 10 2022Hentges threw a perfect inning in Tuesday's 4-1 loss to the White Sox. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Over his last nine outings, Hentges has through 11 shutout innings, allowing just six hits and a walk. The southpaw continues to be stingy with baserunners -- he's posted a 0.62 WHIP and a 17:1 K:BB across 13 innings this season. Hentges is still most likely to serve as a multi-inning option for now, but extended success could see him eventually be in a position to pick up the occasional hold.
Apr 24 2022Hentges allowed two hits and struck out three in two scoreless innings in Sunday's 10-2 loss to the Yankees. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: This was Hentges' first appearance longer than an inning. He entered the game after Aaron Civale struggled through the first three innings. Hentges has put up a 1.42 ERA, 0.63 WHIP and 9:0 K:BB through 6.1 innings to begin the season. The southpaw will likely continue to be an option for bulk relief duties, so he probably won't interest most fantasy managers unless he pitches his way into the rotation.
Apr 3 2022Hentges will begin the 2022 season in the bullpen, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Not surprisingly, Hentges is on the outside looking in for a spot in the rotation. The southpaw struggled with a 6.68 ERA and 1.78 WHIP across 30 appearances last season, but he was more effective in relief than he was in his 12 starts. The 25-year-old should see mostly multi-inning assignments, and he could function as a piggyback to starters as they build up their pitch counts early in the season.
Sep 19 2021Hentges has allowed two runs in 6.1 innings since transitioning to a bullpen role. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges was at his best in Sunday's 11-1 win over the Yankees, striking out the side in the ninth inning to end the lopsided contest. The southpaw had little success as a starter this year, but he's been more effective in a low-leverage relief role. Overall, the 25-year-old has a 6.86 ERA, 1.81 WHIP and 63:30 K:BB through 63 innings across 26 outings (12 starts).
Sep 3 2021Hentges pitched a perfect inning in relief during Friday's 8-5 loss to Boston. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw last started Aug. 26, allowing four runs (two earned) versus Texas. Logan Allen took Hentges' regular turn through the rotation Wednesday, suggesting the latter isn't currently set for work as a starter. With Aaron Civale (finger) also nearing a return from the 60-day injured list, Hentges could either be ticketed for a move to the bullpen or a demotion to Triple-A Columbus -- given his 7.18 ERA, 1.91 WHIP and 54:30 K:BB through 57.2 innings this season, he could benefit from more work in the minors.
Aug 26 2021Hentges allowed four runs (two earned) on five hits and a pair of walks while striking out three across four innings against the Rangers on Thursday. He did not factor into the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: It was just another subpar performance for Hentges, who lasted four innings for his second straight start. The 25-year-old just hasn't had the distance, pitching a maximum of five innings on two occasions this year. Overall, Hentges has compiled a 7.31 ERA and 1.94 WHIP across 21 appearances (12 starts). If he remains in the rotation, the southpaw tentatively aligns for a Wednesday contest at Kansas City.
Aug 21 2021Hentges didn't factor into the decision in Friday's 9-1 win over the Angels, allowing one run on three hits and a walk over four innings. He struck out two. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Cleveland's offense staked Hentges to a 5-0 lead through two innings, but the southpaw didn't have a long enough leash to qualify for a win as he got the hook after 61 pitches (41 strikes). It was still his longest outing since July 7, and he's been effective enough in his latest stint with the big club to retain a rotation spot, posting a 4.50 ERA and 7:3 K:BB through 10 innings over five appearances in August.
Aug 15 2021Hentges didn't factor into the decision Saturday against the Tigers after allowing three runs on four hits while fanning three across two innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges once again struggled to pitch deep into the game but that shouldn't be much of a surprise, as he has pitched at least five complete frames just twice across his 19 outings this season. He also ended a streak of three straight appearances allowing one or fewer runs. The southpaw now owns a 6.00 ERA with a 2.00 WHIP across four appearances this month.
Aug 10 2021Hentges allowed one run on four hits and a walk with one strikeout in two innings in a no-decision versus Cincinnati on Monday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The southpaw gave up an RBI single to Joey Votto in the first inning, but Cleveland's offense made sure Hentges wouldn't take a loss in the bullpen game. The 25-year-old has a 7.71 ERA, 2.04 WHIP and 46:27 K:BB through 46.2 innings. It's unclear if he'll return to a bullpen role or remain in the rotation going forward -- if it's the latter, he lines up to start versus Detroit over the weekend. Either way, Hentges' performance suggests he's not likely to be much of an asset in fantasy.
Aug 8 2021Hentges will start Monday's game against the Reds, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges will make his ninth start of the season with Cleveland employing a bullpen game. The left-hander made his last start July 7 and covered 4.1 innings, but he's unlikely to pitch that deep Monday given he's covered single frames in each of his past two outings.
Aug 3 2021Hentges allowed a hit and struck out one in a scoreless inning during Tuesday's 7-2 loss to Toronto. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges was recalled from Triple-A Columbus on July 22, but Tuesday was his first appearance since he rejoined the major-league roster. The 25-year-old has worked as both a starter and a reliever this year, and he's been a long-relief option since his callup. He owns an 8.04 ERA, 2.02 WHIP and 45:25 K:BB across 43.2 innings in 16 appearances (eight starts).
Jul 22 2021Hentges was recalled from Triple-A Columbus on Thursday, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges was sent to the minors prior to the All-Star break, and he gave up three runs in 4.1 innings across three relief appearances at Triple-A Columbus. He's posted an 8.23 ERA and 2.04 WHIP in 42.2 innings across 15 appearances (eight starts) in the majors this year, but he could be a candidate to claim a starting job after Eli Morgan was sent down in a corresponding move.
Jul 9 2021Hentges was optioned to Triple-A Columbus on Friday, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has struggled during his last three starts, allowing 16 earned runs on 17 hits across 10.1 innings. With the All-Star break offering the club rotation flexibility, there's a chance that Hentges could be brought back to the big leagues following the break, but that decision likely won't be made until some time next week. Triston McKenzie was recalled in a corresponding roster move to start Friday.
Jul 7 2021Hentges (1-4) took the loss in Game 2 of Wednesday's doubleheader versus Tampa Bay. He allowed four runs on five hits and three walks while striking out three in 4.1 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: While Hentges pitched into the fifth inning for the first time since June 20, he got no offensive support from his Cleveland teammates. The rookie southpaw continues to struggle with an 8.23 ERA, 2.04 WHIP and 44:25 K:BB across 42.2 innings this season. He's started eight of his 15 appearances, but his spot in the rotation will likely be in jeopardy when some of Cleveland's injured arms return.
Jul 2 2021Hentges (1-3) took the loss versus Houston on Friday. He allowed six runs on six hits and two walks with three strikeouts in 2.2 innings. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: For the second straight outing, a half-dozen runs were charged to Hentges. The southpaw continues to struggle in a starting role this year. Through 14 outings (seven starts), he's posted an 8.22 ERA, 2.06 WHIP and 41:22 K:BB across 38.1 innings. Hentges will likely stay in the rotation until one of Zach Plesac (thumb) or Shane Bieber (shoulder) is ready to come off the injured list. Hentges tentatively lines up to pitch versus Kansas City next week.
Jun 28 2021Hentges (1-2) allowed six runs on six hits and four walks while striking out a batter over 3.1 innings as he took the loss against the Twins on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges had some difficulty locating the strike zone Sunday, as he threw just 38 of his 72 pitches for strikes. His four walks are tied for the most in an outing this season. The 24-year-old did not pitch a clean inning after giving up a run in the first, two in the second, one in the third and two more in the fourth. Hentges hadn't given up a home run since May 17 but surrendered a two-run blast off the bat of Andrelton Simmons in the second and a solo shot to Josh Donaldson in the third. He now owns a 7.32 ERA, 1.99 WHIP and 38:20 K:BB over 35.2 innings. His spot in the rotation should still be safe for now with Cleveland dealing with injuries to their top three arms but lines up for a daunting matchup against the red-hot Astros this week.
Jun 26 2021Hentges will start Sunday against the Twins instead of Saturday as previously scheduled, as Saturday's game has been postponed due to rain, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The game will be made up as part of a doubleheader in September. Logan Allen was scheduled to be called up to start Sunday, but Cleveland will simply push Hentges back by a day instead.
Jun 24 2021Hentges will remain in the rotation and start Saturday's game against the Twins, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After working in relief in his first three outings of June, Hentges moved back into the rotation last weekend, when a fifth starter was needed with Zach Plesac (thumb) and Shane Bieber (shoulder) on the injured list. Hentges delivered an excellent start against the Pirates, working five scoreless innings while allowing only two hits and a walk. He'll be awarded a second straight start on the back of his strong effort, and the 24-year-old lefty likely gained some additional security in the rotation Monday, when Aaron Civale (finger) suffered an injury that will likely keep him on the shelf until late July or early August.
Jun 20 2021Hentges didn't factor into the decision Sunday against the Pirates after tossing five scoreless innings, allowing two hits and a walk while fanning four. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has shifted between the rotation and the bullpen and while he's struggled most of the time, he seems to be pitching well of late. He has not allowed runs in any of his last three outings while posting an 11:1 K:BB across that span (eight innings). The right-hander has pitched at least five frames just twice this season and it remains to be seen whether he'll remain in the rotation moving forward or if he'll return to the bullpen.
Jun 17 2021Hentges allowed a hit and struck out three in a scoreless inning in Thursday's 10-3 win over Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges has struggled in a versatile role this year, with a 7.57 ERA, 2.12 WHIP and 33:15 K:BB across 27.1 innings. He's made four of his 11 appearances as a starter. The southpaw is currently projected to make a start Sunday in Pittsburgh, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. It's unclear how many innings Hentges will be expected to log in that outing, as he hasn't covered more than 2.1 innings in his last four appearances dating back to May 30.
Jun 6 2021Hentges allowed five runs on nine hits and struck out two across 1.2 innings of Sunday's 18-5 loss to Baltimore. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: After the southpaw navigated the third inning without much trouble, he remained in the game for the fourth. That didn't go as well, as Hentges struggled until Trevor Stephan relieved him. Hentges has collected an 8.51 ERA, 2.30 WHIP and 26:15 K:BB across 24.1 innings this year. He hasn't inspired much confidence as either a starter or a reliever through nine outings (four starts).
May 30 2021Hentges took the no-decision in Game 2 of Sunday's doubleheader against Toronto, allowing four runs on four hits and three walks with two strikeouts in 2.1 innings in a 6-5 win. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges got through the game's first two innings unscathed but ran into trouble the second time through the order, allowing five straight base runners and all four runs once Toronto leadoff man Marcus Semien stepped to the plate a second time. He's yet to pitch more than five innings in any start and needs to work deeper into games to become a streamer.
May 29 2021Hentges won't pitch Saturday against the Blue Jays since the game was postponed due to inclement weather, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Saturday's matchup will be made up as part of a doubleheader Sunday. Hentges will take the mound in Game 2 while Aaron Civale starts in the matinee.
May 25 2021Hentges didn't factor into the decision in Monday's 6-5 win over the Tigers after allowing three runs on five hits and three walks over five innings. He struck out seven. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The left-hander left the game after 88 pitches (52 strikes) and was in line for his second loss before the Cleveland offense tied it up in the top of the sixth inning. There were still signs of progress, however, as Hentges put together his longest outing since moving into the rotation while establishing a new career high in strikeouts. He'll take a 62.0 ERA and 22:12 K:BB through 20.1 innings into his next start.
May 17 2021Hentges (1-1) yielded six runs on five hits and three walks over 1.2 innings Monday, striking out one and taking the loss against the Angels. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges allowed a run to score on a groundout by Anthony Rendon in the first inning but things got out of hand quickly in the second. Shortly after a two-run double by Juan Lagares, Hentges served up a three-run blast to Shohei Ohtani. His season ERA shot up to 6.46 over 15.1 frames. It was just the second start of his young MLB career and it's unclear if he'll get another turn in the rotation. Hentges is currently projected to face the Twins at home this weekend.
May 12 2021Hentges allowed four hits and four walks over 4.2 scoreless innings while striking out six in a no-decision versus the Cubs on Wednesday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges made his first major-league start Wednesday, and it went reasonably well. He threw 46 of his 84 pitches for strikes and none of his mistakes ended up on the scoreboard. The southpaw owns a 3.29 ERA through 13.2 innings, although his 1.76 WHIP and 14:6 K:BB are a cause for concern. The 24-year-old tentatively lines up for his next start versus the Angels next week.
May 9 2021Hentges and Cleveland won't face Cincinnati on Sunday after the game was postponed due to inclement weather. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: The two teams will make up the game Aug. 9. Hentges was scheduled to make his third career MLB start Sunday after he was battered for five runs (four earned) on 11 hits and two walks over 6.1 innings in his first two outings. Due to his poor results and his standing as Cleveland's No. 5 starter, Hentges could be pushed to the back of the team's pitching schedule heading into the upcoming week.
May 4 2021Hentges gave up two runs on six hits and two walks with a pair of strikeouts in 3.1 innings in Tuesday's 7-3 win over Kansas City. He did not factor in the decision. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges was a little too generous with baserunners, although he largely got away with it. Salvador Perez got the better of the southpaw twice, hitting an RBI single in the third inning and a solo home run in the fifth. Hentges has a 5.00 ERA, 1.78 WHIP and 8:2 K:BB across nine innings this season. He has a loose grip on the fifth starter role and tentatively lines up to face Cincinnati at home this weekend if he remains in the rotation.
Apr 30 2021Hentges will take the rotation spot that had belonged to Logan Allen, who was demoted Wednesday, Zack Meisel of The Athletic reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Allen beat out Cal Quantrill for Cleveland's fifth starter job but lost the position after struggling to a 9.19 ERA in his first five starts. The team won't turn to Quantrill to replace him, however, but will lean on Hentges instead. Hentges has given up four runs (three earned) in 5.2 innings of relief in his major-league debut this season. He skipped over Triple-A after struggling to a 5.11 ERA in 26 starts at the Double-A level in 2019.
Apr 28 2021Hentges allowed three runs (two earned) on five hits and struck out two over three innings in Wednesday's 10-2 loss to the Twins. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges worked the most innings of any Cleveland pitcher Wednesday after an ugly start from Logan Allen. The 24-year-old Hentges has a 4.76 ERA, 1.41 WHIP and six strikeouts with no walks over 5.2 innings this season. He had a 5.11 ERA and 1.65 WHIP in 26 starts with Double-A Akron in 2019, so there's a track record as a starter if manager Terry Francona wants to call on the southpaw for a rotation spot in the near future. Cal Quantrill is also in the mix for the fifth starter role.
Apr 25 2021Hentges (1-0) allowed two hits and no walks while striking out one in 1.2 scoreless innings to earn the win against the Yankees on Sunday. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges gave up one run in his major-league debut Tuesday, and he picked up the win in relief in Sunday's series finale against the Yankees. The southpaw has now allowed one run on three hits and no walks while striking out four in 2.1 relief innings this year.
Apr 17 2021Hentges was recalled from Cleveland's alternate training site Saturday, Mandy Bell of MLB.com reports. ROTOWIRE RECOMMENDS: Hentges will be in line to make his major-league debut at some point in the near future after outfielder Ben Gamel was sent down in a corresponding move. Although Hentges has solely worked as a starter in the minors recently, he could fill a long-relief role for the major-league club. In 26 starts with Double-A Akron in 2019, Hentges posted a 5.11 ERA and 1.65 WHIP in 128.2 innings.