Editorials

Rumors: Dodgers May Have Interest In Cuban Jorge Hernandez

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With Spring Training nearing, the Los Angeles Dodgers seemed to be set with their roster for the 2015 season.

While their major-league roster could still be set, the team has been interested in a pair of Cuban infielders that could be signed before March. Teenage prospect Yoan Moncada and infielder Hector Olivera have been working out in the presence of the Dodgers, and could both sign with the team in the coming weeks. With another Cuban player waiting to be cleared, it appears the Dodgers may have interest.



According to JP Hoornstra of the LA Daily News, a right-hander may soon hit the open market:

Pitcher Jorge Hernandez has hired a U.S.-based agent and is in the process of applying for a U.S. work visa in the Dominican Republic. Agent Charles Hairston said that Hernandez intends to hold a multi-team showcase in Arizona or Florida once he’s able.

His agent is the cousin of former Dodger player and current SportsNet LA broadcaster Jerry Hairston, Jr., although that doesn’t indicate any help to the Dodgers.

However, Hairston did mention Los Angeles as a possible destination for his client:

We want to find a place where he can call home,” Hairston said. “The Dodgers would be a great organization — anyone who recognizes the talent, asks him to work hard and stay humble.”

Hernandez is a 23-year-old right-hander that can touch 97 MPH to go along with three other pitches. He most recently pitched in the Dominican Winter League, tossing just over nine innings. Until now, Hernandez has only held one workout, which was in November for the San Francisco Giants. The 6’3, 240-pounder has pitched in the Serie Nacional de Cuba for parts of six seasons, meaning he won’t be under the international spending guidelines. There will be no taxes or penalties if the Dodgers pursue Hernandez.

The Dodgers have already had one success from Cuba, and it appears they are looking to find another.

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Vincent Samperio

Vince is currently the Associate Editor and Social Media Manager for Dodgers Nation. Hailing from San Pedro, CA and a student at Cal State Long Beach, Vince has previously written for the Daily 49er and LASF Magazine.

2 Comments

  1. Sounds like a low-risk bullpen signing to me. Wouldn’t complain if we landed him at all.

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