The idea of Felix Hernandez wearing anything other than a Seattle Mariners uniform is still a strange concept. Although he was with the Atlanta Braves last season, and seemed destined to crack their rotation, he opted out of the 2020 campaign due to the ongoing pandemic. The last memories of Hernandez during a regular season game continued to be with his being a part of the Mariners’ organization.
This may change in 2021. Hernandez has signed a minor league deal with the Baltimore Orioles, earning $1 million if he is part of the major league roster.
Sources: Felix Hernandez is signing with Baltimore. Minor league deal.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) February 4, 2021
1,000,000 #King
The years had not been kind to Hernandez. As the innings built up on his arm, he began to lose his effectiveness, becoming a shell of what he was. Over his two most recent seasons, he had posted a 9-22 record with a 5.82 ERA and a 1.443 WHiP over his 227.1 innings, striking out 182 batters with 84 walks. His velocity had continued to decline, and his devasting changeup was not nearly the weapon it had been.
But there is still hope. Hernandez had looked good during his time in spring training with the Braves last year. And with the additional time off due to his opting out of the 2020 campaign, his arm may be healthier than it has been in quite some time.
The Orioles provide Hernandez with a golden opportunity. Their rotation has numerous question marks, with their nominal ace being John Means. Several prospects, including Dean Kremer and Keegan Akin, are expected to be a part of their pitching staff. However, even with those prospects, the back of Baltimore’s rotation is still a disaster.
Hernandez can also provide the Orioles with more than a back of the rotation arm. He is a veteran presence who understands what it took to be one of the best pitchers in the game. On a team with such a young starting rotation, having a pitcher such as Hernandez can be invaluable to their development.
Felix Hernandez has signed with the Baltimore Orioles. This may be the perfect place for him to look to continue his career.