OREM, Utah — Utah Valley right-handed pitcher
Ray Hernandez has signed a professional contract and is now pitching for the Idaho Falls Chukars of the Pioneer League. Hernandez spent two seasons in Orem with the Wolverines and concluded his Utah Valley career in 2026.
"This could not have happened to a better human being," Utah Valley head coach
Nate Rasmussen said. "Anyone who meets Ray instantly becomes a better version of themselves. I hope his baseball career takes him far so that he can continue to positively impact everyone he connects with. This was 100% earned."
Since joining Idaho Falls, Hernandez has made seven appearances and owns a 3-0 record with 23 innings pitched. He made his professional debut on July 23 against Missoula.
During his two seasons at Utah Valley, Hernandez made 21 appearances and finished with a 2-1 career record.
In 2025, he recorded a season-high 4 2/3 innings pitched against San Francisco during the final regular-season series. He also appeared in the NCAA Regional, tossing 2 1/3 innings against Arizona, which later advanced to the College World Series.
In 2026, Hernandez struck out a season-high five batters against UC Riverside on March 1. In that outing, he pitched four innings, allowed three hits and surrendered just one run. His best performance came during Senior Weekend when he threw a career-high six innings against UT Arlington, allowing five hits in a 13-5 Utah Valley victory.
Hernandez's signing gives Utah Valley 10 former players currently competing in professional baseball. He is one of three members of the 2026 Wolverines squad to begin a professional career this summer.
Wolverines in the Pros
Paxton Schultz (RHP, Washington Nationals, Triple-A)
Casey Anderson (RHP, Arizona Diamondbacks, Triple-A)
Mitch Mueller (RHP, Minnesota Twins, Double-A)
Kaden Carpenter (OF, Texas Rangers, Single-A)
Patrick Mills (1B/OF, Billings Mustangs)
Garrett Broussard (3B, Florence Y'alls)
Cole Jordan (UTL, Ogden Raptors)
Calyn Halvorson (INF, Lincoln Saltdogs)
CJ Colyer (RHP/INF, Idaho Falls Chukars)
