MESA, Ariz. _ Kyle Hendricks joked that he's been sporting facial hair for sixth months.
But the Cubs' starting pitcher, 28, joked Sunday morning that it feels "kind of weird" being a young veteran as he enters his fifth season.
"I've been here for a few years and with this core group, it feels like we are somewhat of a (group of) veterans," Hendricks said. "It's hard to say that word because we feel so young. We have been around a few years and know the system of Joe (Maddon) and the coaches. We all feel comfortable and know it's our team. The camaraderie level grows every year, so that makes it comfortable coming into this clubhouse every day."
Maddon described Hendricks as a "different cat," prompting Hendricks to feel more comfortable about his status among his teammates.
"I'm just more myself," said Hendricks, a Dartmouth graduate who often performs Pilates and yoga exercises prior to morning workouts. "Through the years, Joe and the front office have given me the luxury and always tell me just be myself. Do you. You don't get that at a lot of places, so it's a luxury to have here. I'm finally just comfortable being myself, staying in my routine, knowing what I do has the ability to work.
"When you put the work in and see the results, it just makes you more confident."
Hendricks has earned the distinction of starting Game 7 of the 2016 World Series and the Game 1 and 5 assignments in the 2017 National League Division Series, decisions that were fully endorsed by ace Jon Lester.
Hendricks appreciated Lester's support and credits the maturity and experience he's gained since being promoted to the majors midway through the 2014 season.
"You're always testing and trying to learn more about yourself," Hendricks said. "For some reason, three years now, I really feel I know myself pretty well now."
