The Arizona Diamondbacks have added depth to their bullpen by signing right-handed pitcher Julian Fernandez to a minor league contract.
The deal, which comes with an invitation to spring training, offers Fernandez an opportunity to compete for a spot on the big-league roster while providing the organization with a hard-throwing reliever to bolster their pitching options.
At 28 years old, Fernandez is known for his electrifying velocity, regularly hitting triple digits with his fastball. His ability to overpower hitters has long made him an intriguing prospect, but injuries and inconsistency have hindered his path to sustained success in the major leagues. Most notably, Fernandez underwent Tommy John surgery early in his career, which sidelined him for an extended period.
Originally signed as an international free agent by the Colorado Rockies in 2012, Fernandez worked his way through the minors, showcasing his high-octane fastball and a developing slider. He made his MLB debut with the Rockies in 2021, but control issues and limited opportunities left him with a 7.71 ERA in a brief 4.2-inning stint. Since then, Fernandez has bounced between organizations, including time with the Miami Marlins and San Francisco Giants systems.
Despite his struggles at the major league level, Fernandez has shown flashes of dominance in the minors. In 2023, he posted a solid 3.86 ERA across 44 appearances in Triple-A, striking out 58 batters over 51 innings. While his walk rate remains a concern, his ability to generate strikeouts and limit hard contact suggests he could still be a valuable asset in the right situation.
For the Diamondbacks, Fernandez represents a low-risk, high-reward signing. Arizona is coming off a season in which their bullpen ranked in the middle of the pack, and they are actively seeking options to improve their late-inning reliability. Fernandez’s raw talent and potential make him an intriguing candidate to contribute at some point in the 2024 season.
If Fernandez can refine his control and stay healthy, he has the tools to be a difference-maker. The Diamondbacks’ coaching staff will undoubtedly work closely with him during spring training to harness his potential and maximize his contributions. Whether he starts the season in Triple-A Reno or breaks camp with the big-league club, Fernandez’s signing is a testament to Arizona’s willingness to take chances on high-upside arms.
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