Liam Hendriks is an elite closer, however, his latest opponent is not a batter—it is Boston traffic. In a recent podcast episode, the fiery Australian did not stop. From red lights to slow drivers, Hendriks made it clear: tracking Boston’s roads is tougher than closing out the ninth inning.

Bosox’s fans are known for their animated passion; they love the game, their team, their city, and yes, their streets too. So when a new star comes in swinging—verbally, at least—it is bound to spark some debate. Will the team embrace Liam Hendriks? Or has he already booked a room on their list of grievances?

Hendriks is wired distinctively—he competes in everything. “I am not letting my wife win anything“, the pitcher admitted. Losing to the league’s hitters? That the AL MLB Comeback Player of the Year Award winner can handle. However, sitting at a red light? Absolutely not.

The star took aim at Florida drivers, calling the place “God’s waiting room“. After that he bluntly said, “everyone’s a hole“. Then came the real dagger for Bosox, with Hendricks commenting: “driving in Boston. Yeah, driving. I am running out of juice on my home and I can tell you that much“.

Boston’s traffic woes are not just a feeling—they are backed by data. Boston ranked 4th worst in the U.S. for traffic congestion in 2024 and 12 the in the world. Drivers in the city are losing an average of 134 hours per year in traffic. More frustrating? The city has a large red-light camera densities, making every stop feel longer.

Liam Hendriks, used to a high-powered life and high-speed game, clearly is not adjusting well to the stop-and-go life. However, did he merely say what everyone is thinking? Or did he step on a landmine before stepping on the mound?

Can Boston fans handle the heat from Liam Hendriks?

Bosox‘s fans are simple. They look for two things: loyalty and results. Liam Hendriks has the intensity, but now he just needs the saves. If the new addition dominates in the ninth, fans will embrace him—traffic complaints and all. However, if he loses? Boston sports radio will eat him alive. This city carries grudges – just ask Johnny Damon. He went from hero to villain overnight after joining the Yankees. Or Carl Crawford, whose period in the team was a disaster, on and off the field. Similarly, David Price, who is a former Cy Young winner, never recovered from calling Bosox fans “unfair“.

For context, Red Sox fans are not just passionate—they are relentless. A 2019 survey ranked them as the second most intense fan base. In 2020, Forbes dubbed the territorial Red Sox fans the “most loyal fanbase” in MLB. And when Boston sports radio gets going? Good luck. Boston has over 15 dedicated sports talk shows. They are ready to dissect every quote, pitch and, apparently, even traffic complaints in the city. For now, Liam Hendriks has time. A powerful season can erase any tension.

Hendriks speaks his mind – but time will tell whether he put his foot in his mouth. And while he can’t walk back his words now, the thing he can control is his performance: if he locks down games, Boston will love him. However, if he blows a few saves, he could see that traffic is not the worst thing Boston has to provide. So, Boston fans, what is your take? Is Hendriks just being honest? Did he already strike out?