Dodgers Add Jonathan Hernández in Bullpen Depth Move Ahead of Padres Series
Dodgers sign Jonathan Hernández before Padres series, boosting bullpen depth amid injuries as right-handed relief options continue to shuffle.
SAN DIEGO, CA—Before the start of their critical three-game series against the San Digeio Padres, the Los Angeles Dodgers will reportedly have another arm to add to their bullpen musical chairs after signing free agent pitcher Jonathan Hernández, per Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic.
Hernández originally signed with the Texas Rangers as an international free agent in 2013 and quickly developed into one of the organization’s notable prospects, earning a spot on the team’s Top 30 list by 2016.
He went on to make his MLB debut in 2019, appearing in nine games and posting a 4.32 ERA over 16.2 innings. The following season, he carved out a larger role in the bullpen, improving to a 2.90 ERA across 31 innings while striking out 31 batters against just eight walks.
Hernández has not appeared at the MLB level since 2024, and recent attempts to return to the majors have fallen short. The 2025 season was spent in the Tampa Bay Rays organization on a minor league deal, but no MLB call-up followed.
A subsequent minor league contract with the Philadelphia Phillies was signed in December 2025, though the deal ended on Sunday after opting out when no major league opportunity materialized.
How Does Hernández Fit into the Picture?
The Dodgers are continuing to reinforce their pitching depth amid an early-season wave of injuries, and Hernández is among several midseason additions in the mix.
With right-handers Wyatt Mills, Paul Gervase, and Chayce McDermott currently in the bullpen, continued struggles or workload concerns could open the door for Hernández to be called up as a fresh arm for Los Angeles.