Dodgers News: Nationals Claim Julian Fernández
Fernández was placed on waivers after the Dodgers claimed Buddy Kennedy on Friday
DENVER, CO—On Friday, before the start of a massive three-game series between the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers, the team announced a flurry of roster moves.
The significant move was the placement of third baseman Max Muncy back to the 10-day injured list, this time with a Grade One right oblique strain, an issue that forced the left-handed swinging slugger to miss three months last summer.
In order to replace Muncy on the roster, the Dodgers claimed utility infielder Buddy Kennedy from the Toronto Blue Jays. To make room on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers DFA’d right-handed pitcher Julian Fernández.
Fernández, 29, signed a minor league deal with the Dodgers in the offseason. He was selected to the 40-man roster on July 7th. He pitched two innings that day, allowing two earned runs, and was optioned back down to Triple-A the next day.
His major league experience remains limited, with only six appearances before his game with the Dodgers this year. However, he’s been performing well in Triple-A this season, throwing 41.1 innings for the Oklahoma City Comets in the hitter-friendly Pacific Coast League. He holds a 3.05 ERA, an 8.8% walk rate, and a 28.7% strikeout rate.
With Washington, Fernandez is expected to have a more extended opportunity in the big leagues. The Nationals traded away several experienced relief pitchers before the deadline, including closer Kyle Finnegan. Now, Fernandez joins an inexperienced bullpen, where he is likely to receive many chances to demonstrate he can secure a permanent big league role.
If Fernandez manages to prove himself with the Nationals later in the season, it’s likely the team will keep him as they rebuild their bullpen for 2026 and future seasons.
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