Jonathan Hernandez, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ latest addition to their high-velocity bullpen, has become a focal point for a team looking to strengthen its playoff aspirations. The 27-year-old right-hander, known for his 95 mph fastball and a devastating slider, signed a one-year, $3.5 million deal in December 2023, according to ESPN. His acquisition marks a strategic bet by the Dodgers to bolster their late-inning options, a move that has drawn both optimism and scrutiny from fans and analysts alike.
Hernandez’s journey to the majors has been anything but linear. The 2019 second-round draft pick spent parts of five seasons in the minors, refining his repertoire before breaking through with the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2022. That year, he posted a 3.89 ERA across 62 innings, striking out 78 batters while maintaining a 1.22 WHIP. His performance earned him a spot in the National League All-Star Futures Game, where he showcased his signature 96 mph fastball. However, a shoulder injury in 2023 limited him to just 14 appearances, raising questions about his durability.
The Dodgers’ decision to sign Hernandez comes amid a broader shift in their bullpen strategy. With veteran relievers like Dustin May and Blake Treinen nearing the end of their contracts, manager Dave Roberts has emphasized the need for “young, high-upside arms” to fill the void. Hernandez’s high-velocity profile aligns with that goal, but his injury history and limited major league experience have sparked debate. “He’s a risk-reward play,” said analyst Ken Rosenthal on MLB Network. “If he stays healthy, he could be a top-tier closer. If not, the Dodgers might regret the gamble.”
What Makes Hernandez a High-Velocity Bet?
Hernandez’s fastball velocity has consistently ranked among the top 10% of MLB relievers. According to Statcast data, his average fastball speed in 2022 was 95.2 mph, with peak velocities reaching 97 mph. His slider, a late-breaking pitch that averages 88 mph, has been equally effective, generating a 33% whiff rate in 2022. These numbers, verified by MLB’s official statistics, position him as a rare combination of power and precision.
However, his 2023 season was marred by inconsistency. After undergoing Tommy John surgery in July, Hernandez missed the remainder of the year. The Diamondbacks released him in November, paving the way for his Dodgers signing. While the team has not disclosed medical details, sources close to the organization told The Athletic that Hernandez is “on track to be fully recovered by spring training.”
Impact on the Dodgers’ Playoffs Outlook
The Dodgers’ playoff hopes rest heavily on their bullpen’s ability to close games. In 2023, the team ranked 12th in the NL with a 3.85 bullpen ERA, a step back from their 2022 campaign. Hernandez’s addition could address that weakness, particularly in high-leverage situations. “He has the stuff to be a dominant reliever,” said former MLB pitcher Joel Hanrahan on a recent podcast. “But he needs to prove he can handle the pressure of the postseason.”
His role, however, remains uncertain. Roberts has indicated that Hernandez could compete for a setup role, with Kenley Jansen and Joe Kelly serving as the team’s primary closers. That dynamic could change if injuries or underperformance arise. The Dodgers’ 40-man roster now includes five high-velocity relievers, a group that includes 24-year-old James Wood, who has yet to make his MLB debut.
What’s Next for Hernandez and the Dodgers?
Hernandez will report to Spring Training in February, where he’ll compete for a spot in the bullpen. The Dodgers have emphasized that his development will be “player-driven,” with no strict timeline for his return to the majors. A recent workout video shared by Hernandez on Instagram showed him throwing 95 mph fastballs, a sign of progress. However, his performance in exhibition games will be critical in determining his role.
For the Dodgers, the Hernandez signing represents a calculated risk. With the NL West competitive and
