The Astros' potential fifth starter is finally heading to Spring Training. Non-roster invite Roberto Hernández has received his work visa today, reported MLB.com's Brian McTaggart:
#Astros P Roberto Hernandez has received his visa and will fly to Florida tonight. He'll take a physical tomorrow morning in Kissimmee.
— Brian McTaggart ⚾️ (@brianmctaggart) March 4, 2015
Hinch on Hernandez: "I want him in the country before I talk to where he's going to be."
— Evan Drellich (@EvanDrellich) March 4, 2015
Roberto Hernandez is on a 5:30 p.m. flight tonight.
— Evan Drellich (@EvanDrellich) March 4, 2015
Roberto Hernandez was actually approved on Friday, but a holiday in the Dominican held up the visa being put in his passport.
— Evan Drellich (@EvanDrellich) March 4, 2015
The delay in receiving his visa stems from Roberto Hernández's issue with identity fraud. Previously known as Fausto Carmona, Hernández missed much of the 2012 season with visa issues and suspension.
Hernández pitched for the Phillies and Dodgers last season. In Philadelphia, he had a record of 6-8 with a 3.87 ERA and a 1.347 WHIP. The Phillies traded Hernández to the Dodgers for Victor Arano and Jesmuel Valentin at the deadline. With Los Angeles, Hernández was 2-3 with a 4.74 ERA and a 1.511 WHIP.
Hernández was scheduled to pitch this weekend for the Astros, no word yet if his late arrival with change that plan.