Franco deal official, Hernández leaves start early

Third baseman Maikel Franco entered the Orioles organization today about the same time that veteran pitcher Félix Hernández made a mysterious exit from his start against the Rays.

Franco signed a one-year contract that pays $800,000, with a possible $200,000 in incentives, as first reported by MLB Network's Jon Heyman and confirmed by a source. Franco receives a bonus if he's traded, the same perk given to shortstop Freddy Galvis in January.

Both sides agreed that Franco's option can be utilized for the first few weeks, per Heyman, if he isn't ready to start the regular season. Offering protection for the Orioles as they try to get him at-bats.

Franco, 28, exceeded 20 home runs in three consecutive seasons with the Phillies from 2016-18. He's a career .252/.304/.433 hitter in seven major league seasons and spent 2020 with the Royals.

He's likely to be the regular third baseman in 2021, though Rio Ruiz currently is on the roster.

The Orioles made room for Franco on the 40-man roster by placing reliever Hunter Harvey on the 60-day injured list with a left oblique strain. Harvey also missed 2020 opening day due to a sore right forearm.

Harvey didn't allow a run in two innings, but walked three batters. He threw one pitch in his last appearance on Friday and left with the injury.

Meanwhile, Hernández retired the Rays in order with two strikeouts in the bottom of the first inning in Port Charlotte. Eric Hanhold began to warm in the bullpen and entered in the second.

Hanhold allowed six runs and threw 33 pitches in two-thirds of an inning. Marcos Diplán also surrendered a run, as the Rays sent 12 batters to the plate and led 7-0.

Jorge López entered in the third inning, making him the fourth pitcher used in the game. The Orioles brought six on the trip.

Hernández was making his third start after allowing five earned runs (six total) and six hits in 5 2/3 innings.

This story will be updated.