The Milwaukee Brewers acquire Elieser Hernandez in a one-year deal
On June 8, 2024, the Milwaukee Brewers made a move to strengthen their pitching rotation by signing free agent right-hander Elieser Hernandez to a one-year major league contract. The Brewers have been in desperate need of pitching depth, and Hernandez’s signing couldn’t have come at a better time.
The 29-year-old was previously with the Los Angeles Dodgers, but after being designated for assignment and outrighted from the roster, he chose free agency over his Triple-A assignment. In five games with the Dodgers this season, Hernandez had a rocky start with an 8.38 ERA, three walks, and six strikeouts in 9⅔ innings. But the Brewers saw potential in him and decided to give him a shot.
In parts of six seasons with the Miami Marlins and Dodgers, Hernandez has a record of 10-22 with a 5.15 ERA, 97 walks, and 283 strikeouts in 297⅓ innings over 95 games. While his stats may not jump off the page, the Brewers are hoping he can add some depth and stability to their pitching staff.
In corresponding moves, the Brewers optioned rookie right-hander James Meeker to Triple-A Nashville and moved left-hander DL Hall from the 15- to 60-day injured list. Meeker, who has appeared in one game for the Brewers, allowed one hit and one walk in one scoreless inning. Meanwhile, Hall has been sidelined since April 20th with a left knee sprain and has not pitched for the Brewers since. However, he is making progress in his recovery and is expected to return soon.
Hall, who was acquired from the Baltimore Orioles in the offseason, had an MRI exam on May 27 and had a consultation with Dr. Neal ElAttrache in Los Angeles on June 6. It was reported that ElAttrache suggested a non-surgical option, a platelet rich plasma injection, that would have kept Hall out until September. But the Brewers decided to stick with their original rehabilitation plan and keep Hall on the roster.
Manager Pat Murphy expressed his confidence in Hall’s recovery and is looking forward to his return to the mound. In his first season with the Brewers, Hall has a record of 0-1 with a 7.71 ERA, 10 walks, and 13 strikeouts in 16⅓ innings. But in his previous two seasons with the Orioles, he posted a record of 4-1 with a 4.36 ERA in 29 games.
Kosport Magazine’s Take:
The Brewers’ acquisition of Elieser Hernandez is a smart move for the team. With their pitching staff struggling, a fresh arm like Hernandez could provide much-needed relief. And with Hall’s return imminent, the Brewers are poised to make a strong push towards the playoffs. Good luck to both Hernandez and Hall in their journey with the Milwaukee Brewers.
