The Tampa Bay Rays are reportedly in discussions with free agent pitcher Roberto Hernandez and could be close to signing him, according to Marc Topkin of the Tampa Bay Times. Topkin says Hernandez could serve as depth in either the rotation or the bullpen, or both.

Hernandez began his baseball career with the Cleveland Indians under the name Fausto Carmona. The ruse was uncovered before last season and subsequently Hernandez was unable to get a work visa to come to the United States until July 16. He served a three-week suspension and restructured his contract to take a significant pay cut, but did manage to start three games for the Indians.

The 32-year-old Hernandez has a career 4.64 ERA in seven seasons with the Tribe. His best came in 2007 when he posted a 3.06 ERA and won 19 games, helping lead Cleveland to the ALCS. He also finished fourth in Cy Young voting that season.