Hernandez signed a minor-league contract with the Padres on Friday that includes and invitation to spring training.
Analysis: Hernandez elected free agency after losing his spot on the Padres' 40-man roster back in November, but he's now back with the club as a non-roster invitee. The 29-year-old was knocked around during his brief time in the majors in 2023 but held a 3.84 ERA and 82:21 K:BB over 61 innings between Double-A San Antonio and Triple-A El Paso.
Nick Hernandez Loses roster spot
The Padres outrighted Hernandez to Triple-A El Paso on Monday.
Analysis: San Diego dropped Hernandez from the 40-man roster to clear a spot for right-handed reliever Jeremiah Estrada, who was claimed off waivers from the Cubs. Hernandez racked up 82 strikeouts and notched seven saves over 61 innings between El Paso and Double-A San Antonio in 2023, but he didn't impress during his brief time in the big leagues with San Diego in September. He worked three innings across two appearances and gave up four earned runs on three hits and four walks while striking out five.
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