Dodgers Sign Triple-Digit Arm Julian Fernández

The Los Angeles Dodgers have signed right-handed pitcher Julian Fernández to a minor league deal, as reported by Fabian Ardaya. The 29-year-old will also receive a non-roster invite to spring training.

Fernández, who made a brief appearance in the majors with the Colorado Rockies in 2021, consistently reaches triple digits with his fastball, touching 102 mph. His secondary pitches, an upper-80s slider and changeup, lag behind his heater in effectiveness. Both are considered well below average, and his command remains a work in progress since debuting professionally over ten seasons ago.

Originally signed as an international free agent by the Rockies in 2012, Fernández debuted professionally in 2013 with the DSL Rockies. His career has been punctuated by significant setbacks, including Tommy John surgery in 2018 after being selected by the San Francisco Giants in the Rule 5 draft. Following his surgery, he was claimed off waivers by the Miami Marlins but continued to struggle with elbow issues, sidelining him for the entire 2019 season.

Fernández returned to the Rockies organization in late 2019 and, like many others, lost the 2020 minor league season to the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the interruptions, his raw talent remains intriguing, particularly for a team like the Dodgers with a strong track record of developing pitchers.

The Dodgers are no strangers to taking chances on high-upside arms, and Fernández fits the mold of a low-risk, high-reward signing. His combination of velocity and athleticism makes him a compelling project for the organization.

Spring training will provide Fernández with a critical opportunity to prove he can harness his raw potential and take a step toward becoming a reliable option in the Dodgers’ bullpen. His journey underscores the resilience and determination required to navigate the challenges of professional baseball.