It was noted during the game thread, and I heard Marty say it on the radio, but it should be noted that the Reds have signed reliever Dustin Hermanson to a minor league contract:
Veteran right-hander Dustin Hermanson was signed to a Minor League contract on Thursday and invited to Spring Training as a non-roster player. Hermanson was scheduled to fly to Sarasota on Thursday night and be in camp Friday.
“He’s a good guy to take a chance on, in our opinion,” Reds general manager Wayne Krivsky said.
Hermanson, who will earn $500,000 this year if he makes the team, had 34 saves and a 2.04 ERA for the White Sox in 2005. Lower back inflammation forced him out late that season during Chicago’s run to a World Series title.
I agree with Krivsky; I think this is a smart move. There is no risk whatsoever. If he is finished, well, he’s only signed to a minor league contract. But if he can regain his form, the bullpen is improved…cheaply.