Roberto M. Hernandez

2013

There was no outlook written for Roberto M. Hernandez.

2007

Hernandez's high price tag forced the Mets to allow him to sign with Pittsburgh for 2006, but when Duaner Sanchez was injured, New York traded Xavier Nady to the Pirates to bring him back. Manager Willie Randolph did not show much confidence in Hernandez, rarely using him in key situations, so it was not a surprise to see him move on and sign a one-year deal with an option in Cleveland. Hernandez had surgery on his right knee after the season but is expected to be ready for spring training, and due to the Indians' uncertain closer spot, he could get a few save opportunities during the year.

2006

Reunited with Rick Peterson, his pitching coach from his days as a White Sox minor leaguer, Hernandez bounced back strong in 2005. He rediscovered the release point and bite on his splitter, and enjoyed just one month with an ERA above 3.07 and WHIP greater than 1.23. His numbers across the board were extremely solid and he limited right-handed hitters to a .213 BAA. He even posted a much better road ERA (1.15) than at Shea (3.76). Hernandez' price tag escalated out of the Mets' range, however, so he'll set up for Mike Gonzalez in Pittsburgh on a one-year, $2.75 million deal.

2005

For the last two years, the average hitter against Hernandez has a .843 OPS. Regardless of whether Hernandez hangs them up, you shouldn't consider him.

2004

A big disappointment with the Braves, Hernandez now goes to their division rival Phillies, where he can give up back-breaking homers with impunity for a new team.

2003

A steady decline in skill has been masked by the Royals' inability to really use him. Closers who give up over a hit per inning don't last very long, and he averaged 1.4 hits plus walks per inning in 2002. After closing for two of the worst teams in baseball for the past few years, this 38-year old will count his blessings (and money) and hang up his closer shoes.