PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Phillies have bolstered their pitching staff by claiming right-handed pitcher Carlos Hernández off waivers from the Kansas City Royals. To accommodate Hernández on the 40-man roster, the club has designated right-hander Tyler Phillips for assignment. Phillies President of Baseball Operations Dave Dombrowski made the announcement.
Carlos Hernández’s Profile
- Age: 28
- Hometown: Guayana, Venezuela
- MLB Career: Nine seasons in the Royals organization
Hernández demonstrated his value during Spring Training, appearing in eight outings (10.1 IP). In the 2024 regular season, he contributed to Kansas City’s bullpen in 27 games across four stints, recording a 3.30 ERA (11 ER in 30.0 IP). Known for his electric velocity, Hernández’s 97.8 mph average fastball between 2021-24 ranks:
- 4th among Major Leaguers with at least 2,000 four-seam fastballs, trailing only Hunter Greene, Sandy Alcantara, and Ryne Stanek.
Across his 150 career MLB games (25 starts), Hernández has posted a 7-19 record, 4.95 ERA (141 ER in 256.1 IP), and 226 strikeouts, with a reputation for challenging hitters with his high-powered arsenal.
Tyler Phillips Update
Phillips, 27, struggled in Spring Training this year, logging a 1-3 record and 7.59 ERA (9 ER in 10.2 IP) over seven appearances (one start). The Lumberton, N.J., native made his MLB debut on July 7, 2024, against the Atlanta Braves and appeared in eight games (seven starts) for the Phillies last season. Originally drafted in the 16th round of the 2015 MLB Draft by the Texas Rangers, Phillips was claimed off waivers by Philadelphia in July 2021.
Looking Ahead
With Hernández joining the roster, the Phillies aim to capitalize on his velocity and experience, adding depth to their bullpen as the season approaches. The 40-man roster remains at full capacity following these moves.
