Los Angeles Dodgers trade for pitcher Roberto Hernandez
By Bryan Rose
The Los Angeles Dodgers have one of the best starting rotations in baseball, though Dan Haren has become somewhat problematic over the past few months. Given that, it’s been previously reported that the Dodgers wanted to make a move to reinfornce their rotation.
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They did that today as the team acquired Roberto Hernandez (formerly known as Fausto Carmona) of the Philadelphia Phillies. But not only did they give themselves insurance in their starting rotation, they also helped out their bullpen because Roberto Hernandez has proven himself to be a solid swingman who can pitch in either the starting rotation or out of the bullpen.
Hernandez, who spent last season with the Tampa Bay Rays and seven years with the Cleveland Indiana before that was very solid for the Phillies this season.
In 121 innings, Hernandez has compiled a 6-8 record though more impressively has a solid 3.87 ERA, though his 1.35 WHIP leaves a bit to be desired. Still, it’s a very solid move for the Dodgers considering their needs.
Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports says the Philadelphia Phillies return is unknown.
#Dodgers announce acquisition of Roberto Hernandez from #Phillies for two players to be named or cash considerations.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) August 7, 2014
The most likely situation here is that Roberto Hernandez will slide into the back-end of the Los Angeles Dodgers starting rotation and could very well finish out the season there. Assuming the Dodgers are the make the playoffs, he’ll likely be moved to the bullpen since the Dodgers won’t likely ever need more than four starters in a series. It’s also possible he could pitch initially out of the pen and be an emergency starter.
All in all, it’s hard to dislike it if you’re a Los Angeles Dodgers fan. No, it’s not flashy, but it’s a multi-purpose trade that could potentially fix two holes.