New York Mets taking chance on Elieser Hernandez

It has not taken long for Elieser Hernandez to find a new home.

Hernandez had been designated for assignment by the Marlins on Tuesday as they made room on their 40 man roster. On Friday, the Marlins sent him and Jeff Brigham, who was also designated for assignment, to the New York Mets. In exchange, the Mets are sending minor league pitcher Franklin Sanchez and either a player to be named or cash considerations to Miami.

New York Mets giving Elieser Hernandez a fresh start

It was not that long ago that Hernandez appeared to be a part of the Marlins’ future. Although injuries kept him to just 17 appearances between 2020 and 2021, he posted a solid 3.84 ERA and a 1.216 WHiP over his 77.1 innings, striking out 87 batters with 19 walks. There were some reasons for concern, especially as he allowed 18 homers in that timeframe, but Hernandez appeared set to be a solid back of the rotation option.

Those home run issues reared their ugly head last year. Opponents posted a .269/.335/.586 batting line in 278 plate appearances, hitting 19 homers. Those struggles led to Hernandez being banished to the bullpen and then to the minors as he just could not generate outs.

It is clear that Hernandez needed a fresh start. He can get that in New York, heading to a Mets team that is starting to find success. Their locker room and clubhouse have gone from dysfunctional to a cohesive unit with the introduction of Buck Showalter as the manager as he has gotten the best out of his players.

Maybe that is all that Hernandez needs. Maybe he just needs to be on a different team, working with a different coaching staff and having a different voice. If nothing else, he is a low cost lottery ticket, someone that could end up being a factor for the Mets as they look to shore up their pitching staff.

The New York Mets have acquired Elieser Hernandez. If he can recapture the form he showed in 2020 and 2021, he could be a steal.