Drifters Alum Julien Hernandez Signs Minor League Deal with the D-Backs

Julien Hernandez pitching for the Drifters in 2022

SPRINGFIELD — Another Springfield Drifters alum is going pro! As announced on Tuesday, right-handed pitcher Julien Hernandez—a 2022 Drifter and University of Oregon alum—has signed with the Arizona Diamondbacks and will report to their minor league system.

Hernandez posted a stellar 0.89 ERA over 20.1 innings with the Drifters before completing his college career. After four years at Whitman College, the two-time Northwest Conference Pitcher of the Year transferred to Oregon for the 2025 season and was part of the Ducks' Big Ten championship team. He then thrived in independent baseball, first with the Idaho Falls Chukars last season and most recently with the Long Beach Coast this spring in the Pioneer League, where he compiled a 2.89 ERA and struck out 28 batters in just 18.2 innings.

Hernandez now looks to climb the Diamondbacks’ minor league ladder and become the first former Drifter to reach Major League Baseball. Hernandez will be the sixth Drifters alum to play minor league baseball this season, joining Bridger Holmes, Ben Newton, Hunter Dryden, Bobby Blanford and Canon Reeder.

Everyone in the Drifters family extends our heartfelt congratulations to Julien and wishes him all the best on his journey!