The New York Yankees‘ catching situation is uncertain, with former Rays backup Alex Jackson currently listed as the backup catcher on FanGraphs‘ Roster Resource page, though there aren’t many other promising options behind him.
Enter Ronaldo Hernández, another ex-Rays player.
Hernández, once considered a promising bat-first catcher, was quickly let go by Tampa Bay, a decision that has proven to be correct. Despite stints with the Red Sox and Diamondbacks, Hernández has struggled to secure a spot in the majors.
Both Boston and Arizona lacked a consistent catching duo while Hernández was with them, yet he remained in Triple-A for both teams.
Now, Hernández joins the Yankees on a minor league deal with an invite to Spring Training. He will compete for the backup role behind 2024 AL Rookie of the Year candidate Austin Wells, trying to outplay Jackson and anyone else vying for the position.
Hernández has shown impressive power in the minors, posting a .203 ISO over 99 games in Triple-A in 2023 while with the Red Sox. However, he has struggled with his approach and defense, leading to his failure to make it to the majors despite his power.
In 2023, he had a 39.1% chase rate and a 4.6% walk rate in Triple-A for the Diamondbacks, ranking poorly in both categories. Still, he managed a 114 wRC+, but that wasn’t enough to earn a promotion, and he entered free agency to seek a minor league deal elsewhere.
The Yankees are likely hoping they can improve his defense, as it was never his strength as a prospect. He was considered below average in that area according to his scouting report.
As a right-handed hitter, Hernández could provide an intriguing platoon option, offering some rest for Wells. However, the Yankees may prefer to keep a more defensively-focused catcher like Jackson to ensure a smooth transition when Wells is on the bench, given Wells’ elite framing abilities last season.
Regardless of whether it’s Jackson or Hernández, the Yankees could have a former Ray as Wells’ backup in 2025, especially after the Rays acquired Ben Rortvedt late in the 2024 off-season.
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