The Houston Astros announced Friday that right-hander Livan Hernandez has been released. The Astros signed Hernandez to a minor league deal back in January.
As recently as a month ago, Hernandez was said to be competing for the Astros 5th rotation spot. But if he can't catch on with the Astros in the fifth rotation slot, with which team could he catch on? This could spell the end of Livan's career.
Hernandez, the 37 year-old Cuban with 16 years of pro experience, has a career ERA of 4.39 and a career record of 174-176. He spent time with seven different clubs, with his longest stints with the Giants, Marlins, and Expos/Nationals (with teams between).
Houston Astros Name Brett Myers As New Closer - MLB Daily Dish (Feb 28)
"ESPN is reporting that Livan Hernandez and Zach Duke will be competing for the No. 5 spot in Houston's rotation, which would arguably be the most questionable part of this entire situation. The current Houston rotation projects to include Wandy Rodriguez, Bud Norris and J.A. Happ, with Hernandez, Duke, Jordan Lyles, Kyle Wieland, Aneury Rodriguez and others competing for the final two spots."
Houston Astros Sign Livan Hernandez - MLB Daily Dish (Jan 31)
The Houston Astros have signed veteran right-handed pitcher Livan Hernandez, according to Ken Rosenthal. The deal is a minor league contract according to Rosenthal, with no word yet on whether a spring training invite is included. Hernandez, 36, has played sixteen years as a pro with stints on seven different teams, including seven (non-consecutive) years with the Washington Nationals and four with the San Francisco Giants. He has a career 4.39 ERA and has amassed 174 wins against 176 losses.