Ultimately, it ended with a 'headshot ejection,' as Hernandez, with an ERA of 4.92, was released by Hanwha.

*This content was translated by AI.

Hanwha Eagles have finally drawn their sword. To boost their second-half performance, they are releasing Wilker Hernandez (27) and searching for a new foreign pitcher.

On the 19th, Hanwha Eagles announced that they had requested a waiver public disclosure from the Korea Baseball Organization (KBO) regarding foreign pitcher Wilker Hernandez.

Hernandez, who joined Hanwha with a contract totaling $900,000 (approximately 1.341 billion won) ahead of this season, appeared in 16 games, pitched 71⅓ innings, and left with a disappointing record of 3 wins, 6 losses, and an ERA of 4.92.

Last year, Hanwha reached the Korean Series for the first time in 19 years, but this season they have fallen to sixth place. Despite steady performances from Ryu Hyun-jin, Owen White, and Wang Yencheng, the team failed to climb higher due to Moon Dong-ju's departure and Hernandez's struggles.

In particular, it was painful that the starting pitchers could not pitch enough innings, placing a heavy burden on the bullpen. Hanwha's quality starts (starting pitcher pitching at least 6 innings while allowing no more than 3 earned runs) this season stand at 26, ranking seventh.

Hernandez cannot be dismissed as an underperforming pitcher. When he was in good form, his performance was certainly attractive. He even managed to pitch six consecutive innings over four games.

However, in his last three starts, he failed to last five innings in each game. On the 4th against LG Twins, he gave up four runs in just 1⅓ innings and collapsed. On the 18th against Kiwoom Heroes, he hit Matt Davidson's head during the first inning and was ejected for a 'headshot.'

He expressed strong frustration from the bench, which turned out to be his final appearance with Hanwha.

Hanwha plans to sign a new foreign pitcher as soon as possible.

<© STARNEWS. All rights reserved. No reproduction or redistribution allowed.>

*This content was translated by AI.