Athletics sign 31-year-old pitcher who made MLB debut with Padres

The Athletics are taking a flier on a pitcher who has a 7.06 ERA in 21.2 career innings at the Major League level. 

According to Ari Alexander of Boston 7 News, the A's signed former San Diego Padres and Houston Astros relief pitcher Nick Hernandez. The contract is reportedly a minor league deal, presumably with an invite to spring training. 

Hernandez made his debut in 2023 with the Padres and threw 10.2 innings out of the Astros' bullpen as a long reliever this past season. He struck out 11 of the 52 batters he faced but walked eight and allowed three home runs. 

The state of the Athletics' bullpen 

The A's hope to return to the postseason next year and feature an underrated lineup filled with rising stars like Nick Kurtz and Tyler Soderstrom. They also made a trade for infielder Jeff McNeil from the New York Mets. 

For the bullpen, they've added Mark Leiter Jr., but Jose Leclerc and Scott McGough are both free agents. Swingman Sean Newcomb, who made 36 appearances with the A's in 2025, signed with the Chicago White Sox. 

If Hernandez makes the Opening Day roster, manager Mark Kotsay could use him in middle relief and to eat innings. He has three minor league options remaining. 

More Athletics News:

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• Athletics trade for $50 million Mets' infielder Jeff McNeil
• Athletics tagged as potential landing spot for ex-Phillies, Rays pitcher
• Report: Athletics offered four-year contract to Braves $20 million shortstop
• Athletics considering bold Nick Kurtz, Jacob Wilson contract decisions