Cleveland Guardians Add Hard-Throwing Righty on Minor League Deal
The Cleveland Guardians have begun shaping their roster for the upcoming season, kicking off the offseason by signing right-handed pitcher Carlos Hernandez to a minor league contract.
Hernandez, who spent time with three different organizations last year — the Guardians, Detroit Tigers, and Philadelphia Phillies — logged 43.2 major league innings with a 6.23 ERA and 39 strikeouts. In the minors, he pitched for the Columbus Clippers, posting a 4.70 ERA and nine strikeouts across 7.2 innings.
Known for his strong strikeout ability and command across the strike zone, Hernandez possesses the raw tools to be an effective big-league reliever. His four-seam fastball averages 97.7 mph, giving hitters little time to react, and his splitter has proven deceptive, holding opponents to a .176 batting average against it.
However, consistency remains a concern. Hernandez’s command issues have led to elevated pitch counts and a .315 batting average allowed on his fastball. Most of his five appearances for Cleveland in 2025 came in low-leverage ninth-inning situations, all of which ended in losses. Improved pitch placement could help him harness his velocity and become a more dependable bullpen arm.
Across his career 299.2 innings, Hernandez owns a 5.44 ERA, 1.478 WHIP, and averages eight strikeouts per nine innings (265 total). At 28 years old, he’ll look to bounce back in 2026 within an organization known for developing pitching talent both in Cleveland and Columbus.
Though not currently on the 40-man roster, injuries or bullpen struggles could open the door for Hernandez to make an impact later in the season. Meanwhile, the Guardians are expected to stay active this offseason, seeking additional depth for both the bullpen and outfield after finishing 88-74 and winning the AL Central in 2025.
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