The Detroit Tigers’ bullpen has seen some recent shakeups. Underperforming relievers Beau Brieske and John Brebbia were removed from the roster — Brieske was sent to the minors, while Brebbia was designated for assignment. These moves opened a spot for veteran pitcher Carlos Hernandez, who was claimed off waivers after being let go by the Philadelphia Phillies in hopes of turning things around.
Although Hernandez struggled in Philadelphia, posting a 5.26 ERA and a 1.753 WHIP over 25 relief appearances, Detroit’s manager is excited about the opportunity to work with the new bullpen arm.
Tigers Manager A.J. Hinch Excited to Work with RHP Carlos Hernandez
Prior to Tuesday’s 7-3 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates, Tigers manager A.J. Hinch shared his thoughts on the team’s acquisition of Carlos Hernandez, expressing confidence in the veteran reliever’s potential to bounce back.
“We’re happy to get him,” Hinch told Detroit Free Press reporter Evan Petzold. “We’ll take a shot at unlocking a lot of what he does well. He’s got a power fastball and pretty solid secondary pitches.”
Hinch and the Tigers are familiar with Hernandez from his time in the AL Central, where he spent five seasons with the Kansas City Royals. His standout year came in 2023 when he posted a 3.30 ERA across 27 appearances—production Detroit would love to see him recapture.
Still, Hinch acknowledged that Hernandez is a bit of a reclamation project.
“He’s struggled to maintain consistency, which is why he became available,” Hinch admitted. “But there’s a lot to like about what he brings.”
Hernandez didn’t take the mound in Tuesday’s win, setting up Wednesday as a likely opportunity for his Tigers debut. The Venezuelan right-hander has faced the Pirates five times in his career, compiling a 4.05 ERA with 13 strikeouts in 13 1/3 innings.
Detroit already boasts one of MLB’s top pitching staffs, and if Hernandez can rediscover his form, he could provide a major boost—possibly strengthening the team’s growing postseason hopes.
