Los Angeles Dodgers Acquire Pitcher From Pirates

The Los Angeles Dodgers have bolstered their pitching staff by acquiring left-handed reliever José Hernández from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for cash considerations. 

Hernández, who was designated for assignment by the Pirates earlier this week, returns to the Dodgers organization, where he initially signed as an international free agent in 2016. 

To make room for Hernández on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers transferred right-hander Ryan Brasier to the 60-day injured list, opening up a spot in their bullpen.

LHP Jose Hernandez, who was designated for assignment on June 11, has been traded to the Dodgers for cash considerations.

Hernandez was originally signed by the LA before the Pirates plucked him in the Rule V Draft last year.

My guess is we haven’t heard the last of him.

— Dan Zangrilli (@DanZangrilli) June 14, 2024

Hernández, a 26-year-old native of the Dominican Republic, has demonstrated potential despite mixed results in his time with the Pirates. 

This season, he appeared in seven games, recording a 1-1 record with a 3.38 ERA and four strikeouts over 5.1 innings. 

Over parts of two seasons with Pittsburgh, he compiled a 2-4 record with a 4.82 ERA and 66 strikeouts in 56 innings. Known for his ability to generate strikeouts, Hernández posted a 27.8% strikeout rate and a 12.5% swinging strike rate last season, although control issues led to a 4.97 ERA over 50.2 innings.

The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired LHP Jose Hernández from the Pittsburgh Pirates in exchange for cash considerations. In order to make room on the roster, the Dodgers transferred RHP Ryan Brasier to the 60-day injured list.

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 14, 2024

By reacquiring Hernández, the Dodgers aim to tap into his potential and add depth to their bullpen as they push for postseason success. 

With options remaining, Hernández can be assigned to Triple-A Oklahoma City, providing the Dodgers with flexibility in evaluating his contributions. The move is also timely, given Brasier’s significant calf strain, which has kept him out since late April. 

Hernández’s return to the Dodgers marks a full-circle moment in his career, offering him a fresh opportunity to develop and succeed with his original team.

Photo Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports