Fernando

Hernandez

Hernandez split last season between the Yankees’ Double- and Triple-A affiliates and the independent Atlantic League. The 27-year-old has averaged 8.8 K/9 in the minor leagues, but hasn’t appeared in the majors since 2008 as a member of the Athletics. He’ll likely serve as minor league fodder for Toronto.

The A’s also came away with the White Sox pitcher last year and carried Jay Marshall all season before losing him on waivers to Boston. Hernandez had a 3.06 ERA and an 84/23 K/BB ratio in 85 1/3 IP for Double-A Birmingham. He then went and pitched 12 2/3 scoreless innings in the AFL. The White Sox weren’t thrilled about his arm strength, but he could be valuable in middle relief right away.

They also inked LHPs Cedrick Bowers and Matt Wright, RHP Marcus McBeth and 1B Matt Whitney to minor league pacts. All receive invites to spring training. Hernandez, 25, was a former Rule 5 pick of the Athletics prior to the 2008 season, but was returned to the White Sox after just three appearances. He posted a 1.68 ERA and 20 saves in 57 appearances between Double-A Birmingham and Triple-A Charlotte last season.

Devine missed time with back spasms earlier this month and didn’t receive as long of a look as expected. It didn’t help that the A’s had a short spring and needed to examine some other relievers who lacked options. His demotion would seem to make it more likely that the A’s will keep Rule-5 pick Fernando Hernandez.

The A’s quickly decided it wouldn’t be worth carrying the 23-year-old Rule-5 pick all season long after he started off by giving up six runs and five walks in three innings. They could attempt to trade with the White Sox for his rights.

Hernandez was dropped by the Athletics after giving up six runs in three innings. He’ll probably report to Double- or Triple-A.