The Braves traded veteran right-hander David Hernandez to the Angels on Monday for cash or a player to be named later.
Hernandez’s contract includes an opt-out on May 1. The Braves decided to get something in return for Hernandez once they decided he doesn’t fit in their plans.
Hernandez signed a minor-league contract with the Braves during spring training after asking for his release from the Giants. He competed for a spot in the bullpen before beginning the season at Triple-A Gwinnett, where he made seven relief appearances and posted a 1.13 ERA with nine strikeouts and two walks over eight innings.
Hernandez, 31, has seven years of big-league experience. He was with the Phillies last season, his first full year following Tommy John elbow surgery, and had a 3.84 ERA over 70 games (72 2/3 innings) with 80 strikeouts and 32 walks.
Braves relief pitchers have struggled this season while posting a 5.19 ERA that’s fourth-worst in the majors.
The Braves have another big-league veteran, Jason Motte, on the Gwinnett roster. Entering Monday he’d allowed zero runs in five appearances with six strikeouts and one walk over 5 1/3 innings.
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