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Ex-Red Sox Star Eyes MLB Comeback
11 Nov
Summary
- Darwinzon Hernandez seeks MLB return after four years.
- He pitched with Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks in Japan.
- Improved control and strong NPB stats noted.
Darwinzon Hernandez, a former top prospect for the Boston Red Sox, is reportedly making an attempt to return to Major League Baseball. The left-handed pitcher has been playing in Japan for the Fukuoka SoftBank Hawks since 2023, having spent four years away from MLB.
Reports indicate that Hernandez, who will turn 30 in December, has improved his control and performed well in Nippon Professional Baseball. During his time in Japan, he posted a 2.46 ERA with a 31 percent strikeout rate and an 8 percent walk rate.
Hernandez originally joined the Red Sox organization in 2014 and debuted in MLB in 2019. He achieved his best MLB season in 2021, with a 3.38 ERA in 48 appearances, before facing struggles in 2022.
His strong performances in Japan, including a 1.41 ERA in 2026 and a 2.98 ERA in 2025, suggest he could be a viable option for an MLB team. Players like Erick Fedde have successfully returned to MLB after playing overseas.
Given his continued velocity and newfound control, Hernandez might be obtainable through a minor league contract or an inexpensive major league deal, potentially offering another bullpen option for his former team.
