Brad Hand

{{Infobox baseball biography

|name = Brad Hand

|image = Brad Hand (All-Pro Reels Photography) (51296553360) (cropped).jpg

|image_size =

|caption = Hand with the Washington Nationals in 2021

|team = Free agent

|number =

|position = Pitcher

|birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1990|3|20}}

|birth_place = Minneapolis, Minnesota, U.S.

|bats = Left

|throws = Left

|debutleague = MLB

|debutdate = June 7

|debutyear = 2011

|debutteam = Florida Marlins

|statyear = 2023 season

|statleague = MLB

|stat1label = Win–loss record

|stat1value = 40–55

|stat2label = Earned run average

|stat2value = 3.75

|stat3label = Strikeouts

|stat3value = 782

|stat4label = Saves

|stat4value = 132

|teams =

Florida / Miami Marlins ({{mlby|2011}}–{{mlby|2015}})
San Diego Padres ({{mlby|2016}}–{{mlby|2018}})
Cleveland Indians ({{mlby|2018}}–{{mlby|2020}})
Washington Nationals ({{mlby|2021}})
Toronto Blue Jays ({{mlby|2021}})
New York Mets ({{mlby|2021}})
Philadelphia Phillies ({{mlby|2022}})
Colorado Rockies ({{mlby|2023}})
Atlanta Braves ({{mlby|2023}})

|awards =

}}

Bradley Richard Hand (born March 20, 1990) is an American professional baseball pitcher who is a free agent. He has previously played in Major League Baseball (MLB) for the Florida/Miami Marlins, San Diego Padres, Cleveland Indians, Washington Nationals, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Mets, Philadelphia Phillies, Colorado Rockies, and Atlanta Braves.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Hand's family settled in Chaska before he entered high school. He was a three-sport athlete at Chaska High School, and after his senior year in 2008, the Florida Marlins selected him in the second round of the 2008 MLB Draft. Hand chose to forego a college baseball commitment to Arizona State in favor of turning professional. He made his MLB debut in 2011 when Marlins starting pitcher Josh Johnson was injured, but inconsistent pitch command prevented Hand from becoming a fixture in the Marlins' major league roster until 2014, when he was assigned to the bullpen. Hand spent the next two seasons alternating between starting and relief roles for Miami before he was claimed on waivers by the Padres shortly before the 2016 season.

Hand had a breakout role in San Diego, attributed in part to his slider. He was named to three consecutive All-Star Games beginning in 2017, the same year that he became a closer. The Padres traded Hand to the Indians midway through the 2018 season, and he made his first postseason appearance in the 2018 American League Division Series. After struggling with arm fatigue and pitch delivery issues in 2019, Hand was perfect in 16 save opportunities for Cleveland in 2020, but he was designated for assignment at the end of the year. Hand found varying levels of success in 2021 with Washington, Toronto, and New York before signing with Philadelphia in 2022.

Early life

Bradley Richard Hand was born on March 20, 1990, in Minneapolis, Minnesota,{{cite web |title=Brad Hand Stats, Fantasy & News |url=https://www.mlb.com/player/brad-hand-543272 |website=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 18, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220318163650/https://www.mlb.com/player/brad-hand-543272 |url-status=live }} to Lon and Barb Hand of Hampton, Iowa. Hand's family moved around Minnesota during his childhood, with stops in West St. Paul and Eagan before settling in Chaska just before Hand entered high school.{{cite news |last=Reusse |first=Patrick |title=Brad Hand: draft prospect at Chaska in '08, now a big-league All-Star |url=https://www.startribune.com/brad-hand-draft-prospect-at-chaska-in-08-now-a-big-league-all-star/432276593/ |work=Star Tribune |date=July 3, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=January 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200101094126/http://www.startribune.com/brad-hand-draft-prospect-at-chaska-in-08-now-a-big-league-all-star/432276593/ |url-status=live }} He was a three-sport varsity athlete at Chaska High School, receiving honors in American football, ice hockey, and baseball. Hand finished his senior baseball season with an 8–2 win–loss record, two saves, and a 0.61 earned run average (ERA), allowing only six earned runs in 68 innings pitched. This included a complete game, three-hit shutout against Eden Prairie High School, a 3–0 victory in which Hand struck out 14 batters. At the plate, Hand batted .352 with eight home runs and 24 runs batted in (RBI).{{cite news |title=Chaska pitcher Brad Hand is the 2008 Pioneer Press baseball player of the year |url=https://www.twincities.com/2008/06/16/chaska-pitcher-brad-hand-is-the-2008-pioneer-press-baseball-player-of-the-year/ |work=St. Paul Pioneer Press |date=June 16, 2008 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317154027/https://www.twincities.com/2008/06/16/chaska-pitcher-brad-hand-is-the-2008-pioneer-press-baseball-player-of-the-year/ |url-status=live }}

Professional career

= Draft and minor leagues (2008–2010) =

File:Brad Hand on August 24, 2012.jpg in 2012]]

The Florida Marlins of Major League Baseball (MLB) selected Hand out of high school in the second round, 52nd overall, of the 2008 MLB Draft. At the time, he had committed to play college baseball for the Arizona State Sun Devils.{{cite news |last=Rippel |first=Joel |title=Brad Hand, from phenom to fledgling |url=https://www.startribune.com/brad-hand-from-phenom-to-fledgling/95575259/ |work=Star Tribune |date=June 4, 2010 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=February 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210226105219/https://www.startribune.com/brad-hand-from-phenom-to-fledgling/95575259/ |url-status=live }} Hand instead signed with the Marlins that June for a $760,000 signing bonus and was assigned to the Rookie-level Gulf Coast League Marlins to begin his professional baseball career.{{cite news |last=Rodriguez |first=Juan C. |title=Team keeps losing pitched battle against errors |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-2008-06-21-0806200378-story.html |work=Sun-Sentinel |date=June 21, 2008 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=July 1, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210701164444/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/fl-xpm-2008-06-21-0806200378-story.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Hartman |first=Sid |title=Sid Hartman: If Vikings got Favre, they'd get a stadium |url=https://www.startribune.com/if-vikings-got-favre-they-d-get-a-stadium/24789409/ |work=Star Tribune |date=July 13, 2008 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=April 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210421154335/https://www.startribune.com/if-vikings-got-favre-they-d-get-a-stadium/24789409/ |url-status=live }} In nine games there, seven of which were starts, Hand had a 2–0 record and 2.48 ERA, striking out 34 batters in {{frac|32|2|3}} innings.{{cite web |title=Brad Hand Minor Leagues Statistics & History |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=hand--001bra |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=December 10, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211210224548/https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=hand--001bra |url-status=live }} He was promoted to the Class A Short Season Jamestown Jammers at the end of August. His first win came on September 4, when he allowed two hits in six scoreless innings and the Jammers clinched a berth in the New York–Penn League (NYPL) playoffs.{{cite news |title=Hand helps Jammers to New York-Penn playoffs |url=https://www.swnewsmedia.com/chaska_herald/news/sports/hand-helps-jammers-to-new-york-penn-playoffs/article_6ebdd34b-b3e3-5034-bc6d-a4f06f081531.html |work=Chaska Herald |date=September 8, 2008 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001352/https://www.swnewsmedia.com/chaska_herald/news/sports/hand-helps-jammers-to-new-york-penn-playoffs/article_6ebdd34b-b3e3-5034-bc6d-a4f06f081531.html |url-status=live }} The Jammers reached the NYPL finals but lost the championship to the Batavia Muckdogs.{{cite news |last=Walton |first=Brian |title=2008 Batavia Muckdogs: Team of the Decade |url=https://247sports.com/mlb/cardinals/Article/2008-Batavia-Muckdogs-Team-of-the-Decade-104593347/ |work=247Sports |date=February 15, 2009 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001422/https://247sports.com/mlb/cardinals/Article/2008-Batavia-Muckdogs-Team-of-the-Decade-104593347/ |url-status=live }} Hand made three starts for Jamestown, in which he went 1–2 with a 3.00 ERA and struck out 12 batters in 15 innings.

In 2009, Hand was promoted to the Greensboro Grasshoppers of the Low-A South Atlantic League, where he went 7–13 with a 4.86 ERA in 26 starts. His 13 losses set a franchise record in Greensboro,{{cite news |last=Mills |first=Jeff |title=We saw these All-Stars in the Sally League before they were stars |url=https://greensboro.com/blogs/sports_extra/jeff-mills-we-saw-these-all-stars-in-the-sally-league-before-they-were-stars/article_8b717dca-3995-54ea-8ceb-33d823e0477e.html |work=News & Record |date=July 11, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001455/https://greensboro.com/blogs/sports_extra/jeff-mills-we-saw-these-all-stars-in-the-sally-league-before-they-were-stars/article_8b717dca-3995-54ea-8ceb-33d823e0477e.html |url-status=live }} but he also led the team that season with 122 strikeouts in {{frac|127|2|3}} innings.{{cite news |title=Brad Hand Named FSL Pitcher of the Week |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/brad-hand-named-fsl-pitcher-of-the-week/n-4028815 |work=OurSports Central |agency=Florida State League |date=June 15, 2010 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001442/https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/brad-hand-named-fsl-pitcher-of-the-week/n-4028815 |url-status=live }} He improved as the season went on in Greensboro: Hand was 2–5 with a 7.68 ERA in his first eight starts, but had only a 3.84 ERA in his next 19 appearances. He was promoted to the Class A-Advanced Jupiter Hammerheads to begin the 2010 season,{{cite news |title=Jupiter Hammerheads Vs. St. Lucie Mets{{snd}}April 9{{snd}}Game Notes |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/jupiter-hammerheads-vs-st-lucie-mets--april-9--game-notes/n-3988190 |work=OurSports Central |date=April 9, 2010 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001425/https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/jupiter-hammerheads-vs-st-lucie-mets--april-9--game-notes/n-3988190 |url-status=live }} and by mid-June, he led the team with a 4–3 record, 3.33 ERA, and 74 strikeouts in {{frac|75|2|3}} innings.{{cite news |last=Capozzi |first=Joe |title=Sunday Pitch: Marlins face Matt Wieters and the Orioles this week |url=https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/mlb/2010/06/19/sunday-pitch-marlins-face-matt/7488233007/ |work=The Palm Beach Post |date=June 19, 2010 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001439/https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/mlb/2010/06/19/sunday-pitch-marlins-face-matt/7488233007/ |url-status=live }} Hand was named the Florida State League Pitcher of the Week for the week ending June 13 after pitching a complete game shutout against the Tampa Yankees. He went 8–8 with a 3.33 ERA in 26 starts for Jupiter before receiving a promotion to the Double-A Jacksonville Suns at the beginning of September.{{cite news |last=Elliott |first=Jeff |title=Suns' Brad Hand dominates Smokies in Southern League debut |url=https://www.jacksonville.com/story/sports/minors/jumbo-shrimp/2010/09/03/suns-brad-hand-dominates-smokies-southern-league-debut/15932068007/ |work=The Florida Times-Union |date=September 2, 2010 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001457/https://www.jacksonville.com/story/sports/minors/jumbo-shrimp/2010/09/03/suns-brad-hand-dominates-smokies-southern-league-debut/15932068007/ |url-status=live }} In his only appearance for Jacksonville that season, Hand held the Tennessee Smokies to four hits in six innings of a 6–2 Jacksonville win.

= Florida / Miami Marlins (2011–2015) =

File:Brad Hand in bullpen at Citizens Bank Park in 2015 (Cropped).jpg

Hand returned to the Suns to begin the 2011 baseball season, the only left-handed pitcher in both the starting rotation and bullpen.{{cite news |title=Jacksonville Suns Announce 2011 Opening Day Roster |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/jacksonville-suns-announce-2011-opening-day-roster/n-4179245 |work=OurSports Central |date=April 7, 2011 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001507/https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/jacksonville-suns-announce-2011-opening-day-roster/n-4179245 |url-status=live }} The Marlins, who were in need of an additional starting pitcher when Josh Johnson was placed on the disabled list, promoted Hand to Florida on June 6, 2011. At the time, he was 7–1 with a 3.53 ERA in Jacksonville.{{cite news |last=Hutton |first=Ted |title=Marlins call up Brad Hand to face Braves Tuesday |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/fl-xpm-2011-06-06-brad-hand-lmbdebut-060611-story.html |work=Sun-Sentinel |date=June 6, 2011 |access-date=March 18, 2022 |archive-date=June 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210629105313/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/fl-xpm-2011-06-06-brad-hand-lmbdebut-060611-story.html |url-status=live }} He made his MLB debut the next day, allowing only one earned run on one hit{{snd}}a solo home run to Álex González in the fourth inning{{snd}} in six innings against the Atlanta Braves, but took the loss as the Marlins were shut out 1–0.{{cite news |last=D'Angelo |first=Tom |title=Brad Hand pitches well in debut, but Florida Marlins fall 1–0 to Braves |url=https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/mlb/2011/06/08/brad-hand-pitches-well-in/7428491007/ |work=The Palm Beach Post |date=June 8, 2011 |access-date=March 18, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 18, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220318222147/https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/mlb/2011/06/08/brad-hand-pitches-well-in/7428491007/ |url-status=live }} His first major league win came on July 8, 2011, Hand's fifth start, when he held the Houston Astros to two hits in five innings of a 5–0 shutout win. After the game, the Marlins optioned Hand, who had a 1–3 record and 2.77 ERA, back down to Jacksonville so he could continue to pitch during the All-Star Game break.{{cite news |title=Brad Hand allows two hits in seven innings to lead Marlins |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=310707128 |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |date=July 7, 2011 |access-date=March 18, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001409/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=310707128 |url-status=dead }} He received three more major league promotions between July and September, but was sent back down both times as he struggled both with controlling his pitches and with allowing home runs.{{cite news |last=Davis |first=Craig |title=Hand's reviews mixed, McKeon exasperated |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97895447/ |work=Sun-Sentinel |page=3C |date=September 3, 2011 |access-date=March 18, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001435/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97895447/south-florida-sun-sentinel/ |url-status=live }} Johnson remained sidelined with a shoulder injury throughout that period, and in his absence, reliever Clay Hensley had become a starting pitcher. With the team out of playoff contention by September, however, manager Jack McKeon sent Hensley back to the bullpen and allowed Hand to start the final stretch of games and sell himself as a major league player for the 2012 season.{{cite news |last=Capozi |first=Joe |title=Hensley enjoys return to relief role |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97895839/ |work=The Palm Beach Post |page=C5 |date=September 5, 2011 |access-date=March 18, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001427/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97895839/the-palm-beach-post/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Davis |first=Chris |title=Hand to remain in rotation |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97895889/ |work=Sun-Sentinel |page=7C |date=September 5, 2011 |access-date=March 18, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001452/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97895889/south-florida-sun-sentinel/ |url-status=live }} In his first season with the Marlins, Hand went 1–8 with a 4.20 ERA in 12 starts, and he recorded 38 strikeouts in 60 innings.{{cite web |title=Brad Hand Stats |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/handbr01.shtml |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=March 18, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317202232/https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/h/handbr01.shtml |url-status=live }} He was 11–4 with a 3.40 ERA in 19 Jacksonville games, meanwhile, all but one of which were starts, and struck out 71 batters in {{frac|108|2|3}} innings.

While Hand made a change to the angle of his throwing arm during the 2011–12 offseason, which helped him throw more strikes in spring training, he did not make the Miami Marlins'{{efn|The team rebranded from the Florida to the Miami Marlins for the 2012 season after moving to Marlins Park.{{cite news |title=MLB announces 2012 schedule |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/6969114/2012-major-league-baseball-season-open-florida-marlins-new-park |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |date=September 14, 2011 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112013736/https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/6969114/2012-major-league-baseball-season-open-florida-marlins-new-park |url-status=live }}}} 2012 Opening Day roster, and was instead assigned to Jacksonville on March 18.{{cite news |last=Hutton |first=Ted |title=Send-down Sunday: Marlins reassign 11 players to minor leagues |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/fl-xpm-2012-03-18-sfl-marlins-send-11-players-to-minors-sunday-20120318-story.html |work=Sun-Sentinel |date=March 18, 2012 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=July 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210702031449/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/fl-xpm-2012-03-18-sfl-marlins-send-11-players-to-minors-sunday-20120318-story.html |url-status=live }} He instead started the minor league season with the Triple-A New Orleans Zephyrs as part of a starting rotation that also included Tom Koehler, Alex Sanabia, Wade LeBlanc, and J. D. Martin.{{cite news |title=Zephyrs Announce 2012 Opening Day Roster |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/zephyrs-announce-2012-opening-day-roster/n-4377007 |work=OurSports Central |agency=Pacific Coast League |date=April 3, 2012 |access-date=March 19, 2022}} Hand received his first MLB call-up of the season on August 3 to pitch in the second game of a doubleheader against the Washington Nationals.{{cite web |publisher=Nate A. |date=August 3, 2012 |url=https://www.mlbdailydish.com/2012/8/3/3217440/miami-marlins-recall-brad-hand-option-dan-jennings |title=Miami Marlins Recall Brad Hand; Option Dan Jennings |website=SBNation |access-date=September 20, 2024}} The MLB collective bargaining agreement allowed a player like Hand to join a team as the 26th person on their 25-man roster for a same-day doubleheader as long as he was sent back to the minors the next day.{{cite news |last=Rodriguez |first=Juan C. |title=Back spasms sideline hot-hitting Ruggiano |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97933643/ |work=Sun-Sentinel |page=C5 |date=August 3, 2012 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001421/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97933643/south-florida-sun-sentinel/ |url-status=live }} At the time of his promotion, Hand was 8–5 in New Orleans, with a 3.66 ERA, 116 strikeouts, and 54 walks.{{cite news |last=Navarro |first=Manny |title=Guillen: Stanton might be back in lineup next week |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97933721/ |work=Miami Herald |page=D7 |date=August 2, 2012 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001502/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97933721/the-miami-herald/ |url-status=live }} He struggled in his lone start, allowing seven runs on six hits and six walks in {{frac|3|2|3}} innings. Hand was removed from the game after throwing 97 pitches in less than four innings, including a 33-pitch first inning, and the Nationals won 7–2.{{cite news |last=Capozzi |first=Joe |title=Johnson helps Marlins save split |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97933915/ |work=The Palm Beach Post |page=5C |date=August 4, 2012 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001509/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97933915/the-palm-beach-post/ |url-status=live }} Hand made 27 starts with the Zephyrs in 2012, going 11–7 with a 4.00 ERA in the process, and he struck out 141 batters in {{frac|148|1|3}} innings while issuing 75 walks.

Hand returned to the Zephyrs to begin the 2013 season in the Pacific Coast League.{{cite news |title=Zephyrs announce Opening Day roster |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-43875000 |work=MiLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=April 4, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022}} After the Marlins used 11 pitchers in a 15-inning game against the New York Mets on April 30, Hand was briefly promoted to Miami as a fresh arm,{{cite news |last=Spencer |first=Clark |title=Stanton could miss a month |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97934901/ |work=Miami Herald |page=5D |date=May 1, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001428/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97934901/the-miami-herald/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Rodriguez |first=Juan C. |title='Project LoMo' helps kids make difference |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97934958/ |work=Sun-Sentinel |page=C3 |date=May 2, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001439/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97934958/south-florida-sun-sentinel/ |url-status=live }} but he was sent back down two days later after making one relief appearance.{{cite news |last=Davis |first=Craig |title=Marlins seek a boost from nemesis Diaz |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97935054/ |work=Sun-Sentinel |page=C3 |date=May 3, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001519/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97935054/south-florida-sun-sentinel/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Brad Hand 2013 Pitching Game Logs |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=handbr01&t=p&year=2013 |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=June 1, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170601151736/http://www.baseball-reference.com/players/gl.fcgi?id=handbr01&t=p&year=2013 |url-status=live }} On May 21, Hand injured his oblique during pregame warmups with the Zephyrs.{{cite news |last=Pepis |first=Emmanuel |title=Z's staff finds familiar place atop PCL |url=https://www.milb.com/news/gcs-53844462 |work=MiLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=July 15, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022}} He spent nine weeks on the disabled list; on July 30, his first start since returning from the injury, Hand held the Colorado Springs Sky Sox to three hits in five scoreless innings, earning a no decision. On August 5, he struck out 11 batters and allowed one hit in six scoreless innings, taking the win in a 5–1 game against the Reno Aces. He was named the Pacific Coast League Player of the Week for these two performances.{{cite news |title=Zephyrs' Hand swats away Aces |url=https://www.houmatoday.com/story/sports/2013/08/05/zephyrs-hand-swats-away-aces/27060085007/ |work=The Houma Courier |date=August 5, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001458/https://www.houmatoday.com/story/sports/2013/08/05/zephyrs-hand-swats-away-aces/27060085007/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news |title=LHP Brad Hand Earns Pitcher of the Week Honors |url=https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/lhp-brad-hand-earns-pitcher-of-the-week-honors/n-4658131 |work=OurSports Central |agency=Pacific Coast League |date=August 5, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001450/https://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/lhp-brad-hand-earns-pitcher-of-the-week-honors/n-4658131 |url-status=live }} In 15 starts for New Orleans, Hand went 3–5 with a 3.42 ERA, striking out 81 batters in {{frac|81|2|3}} innings. He was a September call-up for the Marlins in 2013 as a relief pitcher who could make occasional starts as needed.{{cite news |last=Spencer |first=Clark |title=Alvarez belts homer as Marlins top Cubs |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97935897/ |work=Miami Herald |page=5D |date=September 3, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001442/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97935897/the-miami-herald/ |url-status=live }} His first major league start of the season came on September 13 against the Mets. Hand initially had a promising outing, walking only two batters in {{frac|5|1|3}} innings, but the three-run home run he allowed to Lucas Duda in the sixth inning led to a 4–3 Marlins loss.{{cite news |last=Davis |first=Craig |title=Mets' HRs deal loss to Hand |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97936087/ |work=Sun-Sentinel |page=C3 |date=September 14, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001522/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97936087/south-florida-sun-sentinel/ |url-status=live }} His first win since 2011, meanwhile, came on September 18, when Hand pitched a scoreless ninth inning against the Philadelphia Phillies in a game that the Marlins won 4–3 in extra innings.{{cite news |title=Lucas' HR ends four-game skid |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97936300/ |work=The Palm Beach Post |page=C4 |agency=Associated Press |date=September 19, 2013 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001437/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97936300/the-palm-beach-post/ |url-status=live }} Hand appeared in seven major league games that season, two starts and five relief appearances, and went 1–1 with a 3.05 ERA while striking out 15 batters in {{frac|20|2|3}} innings.

File:Brad Hand (21063937675) (Cropped).jpg

After spending spring training in contention with Tom Koehler and Brian Flynn for the final spot in the Marlins' starting rotation,{{Cite news |last=D'Angelo |first=Tom |title=Marlins counting on Jacob Turner in rotation |url=https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/mlb/2014/02/22/marlins-counting-on-jacob-turner/7028199007/ |work=The Palm Beach Post |date=February 21, 2014 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001410/https://www.palmbeachpost.com/story/sports/mlb/2014/02/22/marlins-counting-on-jacob-turner/7028199007/ |url-status=live }} Hand, who went 2–1 with a 2.70 ERA in exhibition games, made Miami's Opening Day roster as a reliever.{{cite news |title=Chaska's Hand earns spot in Marlins bullpen |url=https://www.startribune.com/chaska-s-hand-earns-spot-in-marlins-bullpen/253063861/ |work=Star Tribune |date=March 29, 2014 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001531/https://www.startribune.com/chaska-s-hand-earns-spot-in-marlins-bullpen/253063861/ |url-status=live }} He struggled in his new role as a long reliever,{{cite news |last=Rubin |first=Adam |title=Series preview: Mets vs. Marlins |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/new-york/mets/post/_/id/91191/series-preview-mets-vs-marlins-13 |work=ESPN |date=July 11, 2014 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=August 6, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200806174622/https://www.espn.com/blog/new-york/mets/post/_/id/91191/series-preview-mets-vs-marlins-13 |url-status=live }} going 0–1 with a 6.38 ERA in 16 appearances, 14 of which came in relief, before he was placed on the disabled list with a sprained ankle on May 24.{{cite news |last=Spencer |first=Clark |title=Struggling Hand goes on DL |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97936837/ |work=Miami Herald |page=11D |date=May 25, 2014 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001514/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97936837/the-miami-herald/ |url-status=live }} When he returned from his rehabilitation assignment in July, Hand was added to the starting rotation, which had lost both the injured José Fernández and struggling Jacob Turner, the latter of whom had become the team's new long reliever.{{cite news |last=Navarro |first=Manny |title=Hand will get opportunity at fifth spot in the rotation |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97936982/ |work=Miami Herald |page=5D |date=July 3, 2014 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001502/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97936982/the-miami-herald/ |url-status=live }} It initially appeared as if he would break out in the rotation, going 2–2 with a 2.70 ERA in six July starts, but Hand soon returned to the bullpen when he went 0–3 with a 6.17 ERA in August. He was able to end the season on a high note with a 1–2 record and 3.00 ERA in his last four September starts.{{cite news |last=Navarro |first=Manny |title=Brad Hand aims to improve up-and-down status with Marlins |url=https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mlb/miami-marlins/article11957570.html |work=Miami Herald |date=March 2, 2015 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=July 20, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180720022454/https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mlb/miami-marlins/article11957570.html |url-status=live }} Altogether, Hand made 32 appearances for the Marlins in 2014, half starts and half in relief. He went 3–8 with a 4.38 ERA, striking out 67 batters in 111 innings.

In 2015, Hand and the newly acquired David Phelps spent spring training preparing as backup starters in case the Marlins quickly lost a member of their rotation to injury, as they had the season prior.{{cite news |last=Rodriguez |first=Juan C. |title=Marlins notes: Hand, Phelps to prepare as starters |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/fl-miami-marlins-news-0222-20150221-story.html |work=Sun-Sentinel |date=February 21, 2015 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=June 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210630055427/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/fl-miami-marlins-news-0222-20150221-story.html |url-status=live }} He was also out of minor league options that season and required a strong spring training to avoid being traded or placed on waivers. After posting a 1.54 ERA in spring exhibition games, Hand joined the Opening Day roster as one of the Marlins' two left-handed relievers.{{cite news |last=Taylor |first=Nate |title=Hand's strong spring leads to Marlins roster spot |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/fl-miami-marlins-news-0331-20150330-story.html |work=Sun-Sentinel |date=March 30, 2015 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=June 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210630053601/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/fl-miami-marlins-news-0331-20150330-story.html |url-status=live }} He received his first start of the season on May 27 against the Pittsburgh Pirates following injuries to Henderson Alvarez and Mat Latos. Hand earned a no decision as he held the Pirates to four hits in five innings, but the Marlins lost 5–2 after poor outings from relievers Mike Dunn and Sam Dyson.{{cite news |title=Pirates rally past Marlins 5–2 for 6th straight win |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=350527123 |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |date=May 27, 2015 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001445/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap?gameId=350527123 |url-status=live }} After allowing six runs to the Toronto Blue Jays in an 11–3 loss on June 8, Hand did not start a game again until August 5, when he pitched four scoreless innings and left the Marlins with a 1–0 lead against the Mets. Hand only earned a no decision, however, as the Marlins lost the game 5–1, giving him a 6–20 career record.{{cite news |last=Navarro |first=Manny |title=Brad Hand has quality start but Marlins fall to Mets 5–1 |url=https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mlb/miami-marlins/article30005154.html |work=Miami Herald |date=August 5, 2015 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=July 20, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180720022430/https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mlb/miami-marlins/article30005154.html |url-status=live }} He broke the Marlins' six-game losing streak in his next start on August 10 when, in addition to allowing only one run on two hits in seven innings, he successfully utilized two sacrifice bunts to lead the Marlins to a 4–1 win over the Atlanta Braves. Hand was the first Marlin in franchise history to record two RBI sacrifice bunts in one game and was the first MLB player to do so since Alex Cora 11 years prior.{{cite news |last=Spencer |first=Clark |title=Brad Hand helps Marlins beat Braves, snap losing skid |url=https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mlb/miami-marlins/article30571452.html |work=Miami Herald |date=August 10, 2015 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001535/https://account.miamiherald.com/paywall/subscriber-only?resume=30571452&intcid=ab_archive |url-status=live }} Hand appeared in 38 games for the Marlins in 2015, 12 as a starter and 26 in relief, and he went 4–7 with a 5.30 ERA while striking out 67 batters in {{frac|93|1|3}} innings.

= San Diego Padres (2016–2018) =

File:Brad Hand on June 21, 2016.jpg

Hand struggled in spring training with the Marlins in 2016, allowing 10 runs on 11 hits in 11 innings for an 8.18 ERA, and he was designated for assignment on April 8.{{cite news |last=Davis |first=Craig |title=Marlins lose Brad Hand to Padres; retain, outright Cole Gillespie to Triple-A |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/sfl-marlins-lose-brad-hand-to-padres-20160408-story.html |work=Sun-Sentinel |date=April 8, 2016 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=July 7, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210707161457/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/sfl-marlins-lose-brad-hand-to-padres-20160408-story.html |url-status=live }} The San Diego Padres subsequently claimed Hand on waivers to fill the final spot on their 40-man roster.{{cite news |last=Sanders |first=Jeff |title=Padres claim left-hander Brad Hand |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sdut-padres-claim-marlins-brad-hand-waivers-2016apr08-story.html |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=April 8, 2016 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001521/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sdut-padres-claim-marlins-brad-hand-waivers-2016apr08-story.html |url-status=live }} Manager Andy Green expected that Hand would serve both in long relief and in more specialized inning roles for the Padres' bullpen.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Hand excited for fresh start with Padres |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/hand-excited-for-fresh-start-with-padres-c171412434 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=April 9, 2016 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001452/https://www.mlb.com/news/hand-excited-for-fresh-start-with-padres-c171412434 |url-status=live }} The trade led to a breakout season for Hand, who had a 3.04 ERA in 51 appearances by the July 31 trading deadline. He was particularly successful against left-handed batters, holding them to a .151 batting average against.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Padres' trio of relievers drawing trade interest |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-relievers-generating-trade-interest-c192813050 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=July 31, 2016 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001452/https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-relievers-generating-trade-interest-c192813050 |url-status=live }} He also had two stretches that season where he faced 20 or more left-handed batters in a row without allowing a hit.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Padres focus on preserving bullpen |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/san-diego-padres-focus-on-preserving-bullpen-c217697896 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=March 2, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001449/https://www.mlb.com/news/san-diego-padres-focus-on-preserving-bullpen-c217697896 |url-status=live }} On September 14, Hand struck out his 100th batter of the season, Kelby Tomlinson of the San Francisco Giants. He was the sixth reliever in Padres history to strike out 100 or more batters in a season and was the second left-handed reliever on any MLB team to reach the milestone in 2016, following Andrew Miller of the Cleveland Indians.{{cite news |last=Cluff |first=Derek |title=Brad Puts His Hand in Padres History |url=https://eastvillagetimes.com/2016/09/brad-puts-his-hand-in-padres-history/ |work=East Village Times |date=September 15, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180826071935/https://eastvillagetimes.com/2016/09/brad-puts-his-hand-in-padres-history/ |archive-date=August 26, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022}} He led all MLB relievers with 82 appearances in 2016, during which he went 4–4 with a career-low 2.92 ERA and struck out a career-high 111 batters in {{frac|89|1|3}} innings. Left-handed batters had a .421 on-base plus slugging (OPS) against him, but he was also successful against right-handed hitters, holding them to a .689 OPS.{{cite news |last=Lin |first=Dennis |title=Brad Hand, former waiver claim, now one of baseball's best relievers |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sd-sp-padres-brad-hand-20170503-story.html |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=May 3, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=September 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210918180134/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sd-sp-padres-brad-hand-20170503-story.html |url-status=live }}

Shortly before the 2017 season, Hand agreed to a one-year contract extension with the Padres.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Padres agree to contracts with 4 pitchers |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-agree-to-terms-with-four-arb-eligibles-c213478698 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=January 13, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001451/https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-agree-to-terms-with-four-arb-eligibles-c213478698 |url-status=live }} Equipped with a new slider, Hand had a strong start to the 2017 season, making it through his first six appearances without allowing a run.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Hand an incredibly durable relief weapon |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-reliever-brad-hand-dominating-batters-c225242558 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=April 19, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001458/https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-reliever-brad-hand-dominating-batters-c225242558 |url-status=live }} By the end of June, he had a 2.59 ERA and was recording 11 strikeouts per nine innings (K/9), while opponents were batting only .120 against his slider.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Hand having All-Star caliber year for Padres |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-brad-hand-finding-his-groove-c238941422 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=June 26, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001521/https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-brad-hand-finding-his-groove-c238941422 |url-status=live }} After posting a 2.42 ERA and a 0.94 walks plus hits per innings pitched (WHIP) through 40 appearances, Hand received his first MLB All-Star Game selection in 2017.{{cite news |last=Kraushar |first=Eric |title=The hot Hand out of the pen |url=https://www.swnewsmedia.com/the-hot-hand-out-of-the-pen/article_1c106a68-a6f0-51c4-8276-e91a53facaa1.html |work=Chaska Herald |date=July 5, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001458/https://www.swnewsmedia.com/the-hot-hand-out-of-the-pen/article_1c106a68-a6f0-51c4-8276-e91a53facaa1.html |url-status=live }} There, he pitched a perfect seventh inning for the National League (NL) team, who ultimately lost 2–1 in extra innings.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=An All-Star homecoming for Hand |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-brad-hand-pitches-in-all-star-game-c241798172 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=July 11, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=September 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210918175659/https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-brad-hand-pitches-in-all-star-game-c241798172 |url-status=live }} Shortly afterwards, Hand was named the NL Reliever of the Month for July 2017, having maintained a {{frac|19|1|3}}-inning scoreless streak and 0.88 WHIP that month.{{cite news |last=Newman |first=Mark |title=Relievers of the Month: Hand, Diaz |url=https://www.mlb.com/padres/news/brad-hand-edwin-diaz-named-top-july-relievers-c246002486 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=August 2, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210306082243/https://www.mlb.com/padres/news/brad-hand-edwin-diaz-named-top-july-relievers-c246002486 |url-status=live }} Primarily a setup man, Hand received his first save opportunity of the season on May 24, when he exchanged places with struggling closer Brandon Maurer. Hand came into the game in the ninth inning with the bases loaded and escaped the outing with two strikeouts and a flyout, helping the Padres defeat the Mets 6–5.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Sleight of Hand: Lefty pulls Houdini escape act |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-brad-hand-escapes-jam-for-first-save-c232328172 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=May 25, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001524/https://www.mlb.com/news/padres-brad-hand-escapes-jam-for-first-save-c232328172 |url-status=live }} The Padres traded Maurer to the Kansas City Royals shortly before the trading deadline, at which point Hand took over the ninth-inning role for San Diego.{{cite news |last=Lin |first=Dennis |title=Days before the trade deadline, Brad Hand goes back-to-back-to-back |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sd-sp-padres-brad-hand-trade-deadline-consecutive-games-20170729-story.html |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=July 29, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=December 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191222004314/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sd-sp-padres-brad-hand-trade-deadline-consecutive-games-20170729-story.html |url-status=live }} Hand finished a career-best year with a 2.16 ERA, 5.20 strikeout-to-walk ratio, 11.8 K/9, and 0.933 WHIP. He also made 21 saves, most of which came after the Maurer trade.{{cite news |last=Sanders |first=Jeff |title=Padres roster review: Brad Hand |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sd-sp-padres-roster-review-brad-hand-20171222-story.html |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=December 22, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=June 11, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210611155735/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sd-sp-padres-roster-review-brad-hand-20171222-story.html |url-status=live }}

On January 14, 2018, the Padres signed Hand to a three-year, $19.75 million contract extension that also included an option for the 2021 season.{{cite news |last=Lin |first=Dennis |title=Padres officially sign Brad Hand to three-year, $19.75 million extension |url=https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sd-sp-padres-20180114-story.html |work=The San Diego Union-Tribune |date=January 14, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=September 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210918154713/https://www.sandiegouniontribune.com/sports/padres/sd-sp-padres-20180114-story.html |url-status=live }} He was officially named as the team's 2018 closer during spring training, but he also made appearances in other high-leverage situations, such as when the Padres faced the heart of the Colorado Rockies' lineup{{snd}}Charlie Blackmon, Nolan Arenado, and David Dahl{{snd}}in the seventh inning of a game.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Hand displays multifaceted role in bullpen |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-capable-of-many-roles-in-bullpen-c273885112 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=April 25, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=October 31, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201031041112/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-capable-of-many-roles-in-bullpen-c273885112 |url-status=live }} On April 18, Hand struck out all four Giants batters he faced, becoming the first Padres pitcher to strike out every batter he faced in a multi-inning save.{{cite news |last=Cassavell |first=AJ |title=Hand makes Padres history during 4-out save |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-saves-padres-win-makes-history-c272298638 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=April 15, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001529/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-saves-padres-win-makes-history-c272298638 |url-status=live }} After converting all 10 save opportunities he faced, MLB named Hand the NL Pitcher of the Month for May.{{cite news |last=Thornburg |first=Chad |title=Relievers of the Month: Treinen, Hand |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/blake-treinen-brad-hand-top-relievers-for-may-c279482458 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=June 2, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=November 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201109032035/https://www.mlb.com/news/blake-treinen-brad-hand-top-relievers-for-may-c279482458 |url-status=live }} Hand's pitching appeared to improve with its frequency: by mid-June, he had a 1.23 ERA working on two or fewer days of rest between appearances, compared to a 7.11 ERA with three or more days of rest.{{Cite news |last=Center |first=Bill |title=Rest doesn't seem to benefit closer Hand |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-pitches-better-with-less-rest-c281822778 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=June 18, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001527/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-pitches-better-with-less-rest-c281822778 |url-status=live }} While he struggled in June and July, with three blown saves boosting his ERA from 2.30 to 3.05, Hand pitched another perfect inning in his second All-Star Game, retiring all three batters he faced in the eighth inning.{{cite news |last=Woo |first=Katie |title=Hand perfect in ASG relief for 2nd year in a row |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-perfect-in-inning-of-relief-in-asg-c286290732 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=July 17, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001503/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-perfect-in-inning-of-relief-in-asg-c286290732 |url-status=live }} Making 41 appearances for the Padres in 2018, Hand went 2–4 with a 3.05 ERA, converting 24 of 29 save opportunities while striking out 65 batters in {{frac|44|1|3}} innings.

= Cleveland Indians (2018–2020) =

File:Brad Hand (43967669001) (Cropped).jpg

On July 19, 2018, the Padres traded Hand and Adam Cimber to the Cleveland Indians, who were poised to lose several relievers to free agency during the 2018–19 offseason, in exchange for catching prospect Francisco Mejia.{{cite news |last=Bastian |first=Jordan |title=Indians bolster bullpen with trade for Hand |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/indians-trade-for-reliever-brad-hand-c286418278 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=July 19, 2018 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317160524/https://www.mlb.com/news/indians-trade-for-reliever-brad-hand-c286418278 |url-status=live }} On his new team, Hand became a setup man for Cleveland closer Cody Allen, who had 19 saves on the season but had blown several attempts, including a game that Trevor Bauer left 4–0 against the Cincinnati Reds that ended in a 7–4 loss for the Indians.{{cite magazine |last=Loede |first=Matt |title=What Does Indians Closer Cody Allen Think of the Teams Trades to Add Brad Hand and Adam Cimber? |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/indians/news/what-does-indians-closer-cody-allen-think-of-the-teams-trades-to-add-brad-hand-and-adam-cimber |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=July 19, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001503/https://www.si.com/mlb/indians/news/what-does-indians-closer-cody-allen-think-of-the-teams-trades-to-add-brad-hand-and-adam-cimber |url-status=live }} By late August, while Allen remained the de facto closer for the Indians, Hand, who allowed only two earned runs in 14 appearances, was receiving save opportunities.{{cite news |title=Cody Allen remains Indians' closer despite his recent struggles in 9th |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/24477197/cody-allen-remains-cleveland-indians-closer-recent-struggles |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |date=August 25, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=May 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210504094353/https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/24477197/cody-allen-remains-cleveland-indians-closer-recent-struggles |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Hoynes |first=Paul |title=Is it time for the Cleveland Indians to give Brad Hand the fulltime closer's job? |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2018/08/is_it_time_for_the_cleveland_i_1.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=August 25, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=August 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200812121242/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2018/08/is_it_time_for_the_cleveland_i_1.html |url-status=live }} After being traded, Hand made 28 appearances for Cleveland, finishing 11 games, and he went 0–1 with a 2.28 ERA while converting eight of 10 save opportunities. The Indians, meanwhile, were the AL Central division champions,{{cite magazine |last=Reiter |first=Ben |title=ALDS Preview: Can the Indians Put an End to Astros' Title Defense? |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/2018/10/05/alds-preview-cleveland-indians-houston-astros-world-series-title |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=October 5, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=October 6, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181006131629/https://www.si.com/mlb/2018/10/05/alds-preview-cleveland-indians-houston-astros-world-series-title |url-status=live }} giving Hand his first playoff appearance in the 2018 American League Division Series against the Houston Astros.{{cite news |last=Lewis |first=Ryan |title=Indians have ALDS roster nearly figured out |url=https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/sports/pro/indians/2018/10/03/indians-have-alds-roster-nearly/9707671007/ |work=Akron Beacon Journal |date=October 3, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001510/https://www.beaconjournal.com/story/sports/pro/indians/2018/10/03/indians-have-alds-roster-nearly/9707671007/ |url-status=live }} The Astros swept the Indians in the best-of-five series, with Hand allowing Correa's first hit of the series, a three-run home run in Game 3.{{cite news |last=Rome |first=Chandler |title=Astros sweep way past Indians to move on to ALCS |url=https://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Houston-Astros-sweep-Cleveland-Indians-move-ALCS-13289918.php |work=Houston Chronicle |date=October 8, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=November 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126074642/https://www.chron.com/sports/astros/article/Houston-Astros-sweep-Cleveland-Indians-move-ALCS-13289918.php |url-status=live }}

Prior to spring training, Indians manager Terry Francona announced that Hand would be the team's closer for the 2019 season.{{cite news |last=Bell |first=Mandy |title=Hand to close for new-look Indians bullpen |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-will-be-indians-closer-in-2019-c304073456 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=February 17, 2019 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317160522/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-will-be-indians-closer-in-2019-c304073456 |url-status=live }} He was 22-for-22 in save opportunities until June 25, when Hunter Dozier hit a grand slam against Hand in the ninth inning of the Indians' game against the Royals, giving Kansas City a three-run lead. Hand's ERA jumped from 1.05 to 2.36 after the outing, and the Indians lost 8–6.{{cite news |last=Bell |first=Mandy |title=Hand saddled with 1st blown save on slam in 9th |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-1st-blown-save-in-indians-loss |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=June 26, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=June 28, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190628133224/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-1st-blown-save-in-indians-loss |url-status=live }} He received his third consecutive All-Star Game selection in 2019 after striking out 52 batters in 27 appearances.{{cite news |last=Noga |first=Joe |title=Francisco Lindor, Brad Hand named to 2019 All-Star Game roster for American League |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2019/06/francisco-lindor-brad-hand-named-to-2019-all-star-game-roster-for-american-league.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=June 30, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001507/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2019/06/francisco-lindor-brad-hand-named-to-2019-all-star-game-roster-for-american-league.html |url-status=live }} Hand was far less successful in the second half of the season, which he attributed to a mechanical issue with his slider delivery.{{cite news |last=Lewis |first=Ryan |title=Indians closer works on delivery |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/97962662/ |work=Akron Beacon Journal |page=C5 |date=August 25, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |via=Newspapers.com}} After his first blown save, he had a 6.95 ERA, a .347 batting average against, and five more blown saves in 22 innings.{{cite news |last=Bell |first=Mandy |title=Inbox: How worried is the Tribe about Hand? |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/indians-concern-about-brad-hand |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=September 12, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=February 15, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215233908/https://www.mlb.com/news/indians-concern-about-brad-hand |url-status=live }} Following a stretch of 19 games in which Hand allowed 12 earned runs on 26 hits for a 6.00 ERA, the Indians sent their pitcher back to Cleveland in the middle of a road trip to undergo medical imaging.{{cite news |last=Hoynes |first=Paul |title=Brad Hand-less Cleveland Indians complete sweep of L.A. Angels with 4–3 victory |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2019/09/brad-handless-cleveland-indians-complete-sweep-of-la-angels-with-4-3-victory.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=September 11, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=September 13, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190913205833/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2019/09/brad-handless-cleveland-indians-complete-sweep-of-la-angels-with-4-3-victory.html |url-status=live }} He was sidelined between September 9 and 20 with what was described as a "tired arm", after which he made only one more appearance to finish out the season.{{cite news |last=Hoynes |first=Paul |title=Closer Brad Hand, Cleveland Indians taking measures to keep him strong this season |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/02/closer-brad-hand-cleveland-indians-take-measures-to-keep-him-strong-this-season.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=February 20, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=January 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220128113437/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/02/closer-brad-hand-cleveland-indians-take-measures-to-keep-him-strong-this-season.html |url-status=live }} In 60 appearances for Cleveland, Hand went 6–4 with a 3.30 ERA and converted 34 of 39 save opportunities while striking out 84 batters in {{frac|57|1|3}} innings.

As Francona did not want to use the same reliever three days in a row during the 2020 MLB season, which was shortened to only 60 games due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hand was not the only pitcher called on to save games for the Indians, instead joined in the closing role by rookies Cam Hill and James Karinchak.{{Cite news |last=Hoynes |first=Paul |title=Cleveland Indians spread the wealth at closer: James Karinchak gets first save |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/07/cleveland-indians-spread-the-wealth-at-closer-james-karinchak-gets-first-save.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=July 31, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210303090740/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/07/cleveland-indians-spread-the-wealth-at-closer-james-karinchak-gets-first-save.html |url-status=live }} Outside of one early-season appearance against the Chicago White Sox on July 29, in which Hand loaded the bases to set the Indians up for a 4–0 loss,{{cite news |last=Hoynes |first=Paul |title=Brad Hand's quest for a zero turns into 4–0 loss for Cleveland Indians |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/07/brad-hands-quest-for-a-zero-turns-into-4-0-loss-for-cleveland-indians.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=July 30, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=May 8, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210508135819/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/07/brad-hands-quest-for-a-zero-turns-into-4-0-loss-for-cleveland-indians.html |url-status=live }} he was sharp for the Indians in the shortened season, going 1–1 and converting all 12 save opportunities in his first 16 appearances.{{cite news |last=Hoynes |first=Paul |title=Brad Hand gets a day off and 4 other things about the Cleveland Indians |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/09/brad-hand-gets-day-off-and-4-other-things-about-the-cleveland-indians.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=September 8, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=December 1, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201201061820/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/09/brad-hand-gets-day-off-and-4-other-things-about-the-cleveland-indians.html |url-status=live }} He made 23 appearances for the Indians that season, including an AL-leading 21 games finished, and went 2–1 with a 2.05 ERA while also leading the AL by going 16-for-16 on save opportunities. This success came despite his average fastball velocity dropping down to {{convert|91.4|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} in 2020, more than {{convert|2|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} lower than it had been when he was acquired by the Indians.{{cite news |title=AP: Nationals pick up 2020 saves leader Brad Hand |url=https://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/brad-hand-nationals-1.50130174 |work=Newsday |agency=Associated Press |date=January 24, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001506/https://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/brad-hand-nationals-1.50130174 |url-status=live }} At the end of the season, Hand was named to the All-MLB Second Team and was a finalist for AL Reliever of the Year,{{cite news |last=Hoynes |first=Paul |title=Shane Bieber makes All-MLB first-team; Jose Ramirez, Brad Hand make second team |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/12/shane-bieber-makes-all-mlb-first-team-rotation-jose-ramirez-brad-hand-finish-out-of-the-money.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=December 9, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=December 10, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201210011304/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/12/shane-bieber-makes-all-mlb-first-team-rotation-jose-ramirez-brad-hand-finish-out-of-the-money.html |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Adler |first=David |title=AL, NL Reliever of the Year finalists unveiled |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/al-nl-reliever-of-the-year-award-finalists-2020 |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=October 19, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=November 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201126161439/https://www.mlb.com/news/al-nl-reliever-of-the-year-award-finalists-2020 |url-status=live }} an award which ultimately went to Liam Hendriks of the Oakland Athletics.{{cite news |last=Randhawa |first=Manny |title=Hendriks, Williams named Relievers of Year |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/liam-hendriks-devin-williams-2020-relievers-of-year |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=October 24, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=October 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211026104420/https://www.mlb.com/news/liam-hendriks-devin-williams-2020-relievers-of-year |url-status=live }}

Because the regular 2020 season was shortened to only 60 games, the playoffs expanded from 10 to 16 teams, all of whom began the postseason in a best-of-three "wild card" matchup.{{cite news |last=Kepner |first=Tyler |title=M.L.B. Expands Playoffs for 2020 Season |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/23/sports/baseball/mlb-playoffs.html |work=The New York Times |date=July 13, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 11, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220311114510/https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/23/sports/baseball/mlb-playoffs.html |url-status=live }} The Indians, who finished the season as the No. 4 seed in the AL, hosted the No. 5 New York Yankees in the 2020 American League Wild Card Series.{{cite news |last=Noga |first=Joe |title=Cleveland Indians will host New York Yankees in AL Wild Card series at Progressive Field beginning Tuesday |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/09/cleveland-indians-clinch-no-4-seed-in-al-playoffs-as-cubs-hang-on-to-defeat-white-sox-10-8.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=September 27, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=October 30, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201030230755/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/09/cleveland-indians-clinch-no-4-seed-in-al-playoffs-as-cubs-hang-on-to-defeat-white-sox-10-8.html |url-status=live }} Hand did not play in Game 1, which the Yankees won in a 12–3 rout.{{cite web |title=2020 American League Wild Card Series (ALWC) Game 1, New York Yankees at Cleveland Indians, September 29, 2020 |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CLE/CLE202009290.shtml |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=November 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211126232746/https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/CLE/CLE202009290.shtml |url-status=live }} Two days later, he entered Game 2 in the ninth inning with the Indians up 9–8. He first allowed Gary Sánchez to tie the game on a sacrifice fly that brought home Mike Tauchman, and then DJ LeMahieu hit an RBI single to score Gio Urshela from second base, giving the Yankees a 10–9 lead.{{cite news |last=Kuty |first=Brendan |title=Sweep! Yankees edge Indians, 10–9, in epic AL Wild Card Series Game 2 |url=https://www.nj.com/yankees/2020/10/sweep-yankees-edge-indians-10-9-in-epic-al-wild-card-game-2.html |work=The Star-Ledger |date=October 1, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=December 2, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201202162804/https://www.nj.com/yankees/2020/10/sweep-yankees-edge-indians-10-9-in-epic-al-wild-card-game-2.html |url-status=live }} Aroldis Chapman held the Indians scoreless to end the game, giving the Yankees the win and eliminating Cleveland from the postseason.{{cite news |title=Indians watch season end as Yankees rally for clinching win in AL wild-card series |url=https://www.goerie.com/story/sports/2020/10/01/indians-watch-season-end-yankees-rally-al-wild-card-series/5879767002/ |work=Erie Times-News |agency=Associated Press |date=October 1, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=April 22, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210422204457/https://www.goerie.com/story/sports/2020/10/01/indians-watch-season-end-yankees-rally-al-wild-card-series/5879767002/ |url-status=live }} Shortly afterwards, the Indians placed Hand on outright waivers; when he passed through the waiver process unclaimed, they bought out the remainder of his contract for $1 million, releasing him into free agency.{{cite news |last=Kelly |first=Matt |title=Is this former lights-out reliever worth a shot? |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-free-agency-breakdown |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=November 21, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=February 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210225173258/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-free-agency-breakdown |url-status=live }}

= Washington Nationals (2021) =

File:Brad Hand Follow Thru Motion from Nationals vs. Dodgers at Nationals Park, July 4th, 2021 (All-Pro Reels Photography) (51296265069) (cropped).jpg

The Washington Nationals, who had lost their only left-handed reliever after Sean Doolittle became a free agent that offseason, signed Hand to a one-year, $10.5 million contract on January 26, 2021.{{cite news |last=Camerato |first=Jessica |title=Hand joins Nats' bullpen: 'I like our chances' |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-nationals-deal |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=January 26, 2021 |access-date=March 18, 2022 |archive-date=April 6, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210406001513/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-nationals-deal |url-status=live }} Serving once again as his team's closer, Hand blew his first regular-season save since 2019 on May 8 against the Yankees. He first took the game into extra innings by allowing DJ LeMahieu to tie in the ninth inning.{{cite news |last=Torres |first=Maria |title=Nationals offense squanders Max Scherzer gem in walk-off loss to Yankees |url=https://theathletic.com/2575770/2021/05/08/nationals-offense-squanders-max-scherzer-gem-in-walk-off-loss-to-yankees/ |work=The Athletic |date=May 8, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210702214548/https://theathletic.com/2575770/2021/05/08/nationals-offense-squanders-max-scherzer-gem-in-walk-off-loss-to-yankees/ |url-status=live }} Trea Turner put the Nationals up 3–2 in the top of the 10th inning, but Hand allowed a Mike Ford RBI to tie the game again, and Tanner Rainey lost the game 4–3 when he allowed Gleyber Torres to walk off in the 11th.{{cite news |title=Yanks rally past Nats 4–3 in 10th, Scherzer strikes out 14 |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/401227553 |work=ESPN |agency=Associated Press |date=May 8, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=June 1, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210601091236/https://www.espn.com/mlb/recap/_/gameId/401227553 |url-status=live }} After more difficult outings raised Hand's May ERA to 7.56, he made a fastball adjustment that was followed by two clean saves in a row.{{cite news |last=Torres |first=Maria |title=After a rocky 3 weeks, Brad Hand and the Nationals bullpen seem to be trending in the right direction |url=https://theathletic.com/2609780/2021/05/24/after-a-rocky-3-weeks-brad-hand-and-the-nationals-bullpen-seem-to-be-trending-in-the-right-direction/ |work=The Athletic |date=May 24, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=July 2, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210702212535/https://theathletic.com/2609780/2021/05/24/after-a-rocky-3-weeks-brad-hand-and-the-nationals-bullpen-seem-to-be-trending-in-the-right-direction/ |url-status=live }} He was more successful from May 22 to July 20, with a 1.52 ERA in 22 appearances during that stretch, but ended his tenure in Washington with seven runs allowed in {{frac|2|2|3}} innings in his last three appearances.{{cite news |last=Wilner |first=Mike |title=Blue Jays takeaways: Reliever Brad Hand still has some problems to sort out as Cleveland touches him up in the 10th |url=https://www.thestar.com/sports/bluejays/opinion/2021/08/02/blue-jays-takeaways-reliever-brad-hand-still-has-some-problems-to-sort-out-as-cleveland-touches-him-up-in-the-10th.html |work=Toronto Star |date=August 2, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=August 3, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210803000909/https://www.thestar.com/sports/bluejays/opinion/2021/08/02/blue-jays-takeaways-reliever-brad-hand-still-has-some-problems-to-sort-out-as-cleveland-touches-him-up-in-the-10th.html |url-status=live }} Limited by his difficulties in finding the strike zone,{{Cite news |last=Todd |first=Bijan |title=Ex-Nats reliever Brad Hand signs with Phillies, returns to NL East |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/nationals/ex-nationals-reliever-brad-hand-signs-phillies-returns-nl-east |work=NBC Sports Washington |date=March 14, 2022 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 15, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220315010804/https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/nationals/ex-nationals-reliever-brad-hand-signs-phillies-returns-nl-east |url-status=live }} Hand was 5–5 with a 3.59 ERA in 41 appearances for the Nationals, and he converted 21 of 26 save opportunities.

= Toronto Blue Jays (2021) =

As the Nationals fell behind in the NL East through the first part of the season, they became aggressive sellers at the trading deadline.{{cite news |last=Kostka |first=Andy |title=Nats fire sale: Gomes, Harrison, Lester traded |url=https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/jul/30/nats-fire-sale-gomes-harrison-lester-traded/ |work=The Washington Times |date=July 30, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=October 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211030212355/https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2021/jul/30/nats-fire-sale-gomes-harrison-lester-traded/ |url-status=live }} On July 29, 2021, the Nationals traded Hand to the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for catching prospect Riley Adams. While Toronto did not have a designated closer, the trade allowed them to partner the left-handed Hand with the right-handed Jordan Romano in late innings.{{cite news |last=Matheson |first=Keegan |title=Blue Jays acquire Hand from Nats |url=https://www.mlb.com/bluejays/news/brad-hand-trade |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=July 30, 2021 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=July 31, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210731023745/https://www.mlb.com/bluejays/news/brad-hand-trade |url-status=live }} He could not find success with his new team: his first 11 appearances for the Blue Jays included two losses, a blown save, and a walk-off walk to the Seattle Mariners.{{cite news |last=Wilner |first=Mike |title=Blue Jays reliever Brad Hand headed to bereavement list prior to weekend series with Tigers |url=https://www.thestar.com/sports/bluejays/2021/08/26/blue-jays-reliever-brad-hand-headed-to-bereavement-list-prior-to-weekend-series-with-tigers.html |work=Toronto Star |date=August 26, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=August 27, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210827052706/https://www.thestar.com/sports/bluejays/2021/08/26/blue-jays-reliever-brad-hand-headed-to-bereavement-list-prior-to-weekend-series-with-tigers.html |url-status=live }} He referred to his time in Toronto as "the toughest stretch I've ever been through in my career" and could not explain why his fastball command was so poor, as they could not isolate any mechanical difficulties.{{cite news |last=Wilner |first=Mike |title=Blue Jays reliever Brad Hand has a simple solution to his troubles: 'Work hard and compete' |url=https://www.thestar.com/sports/bluejays/opinion/2021/08/29/blue-jays-reliever-brad-hand-has-a-simple-solution-to-his-troubles-work-hard-and-compete.html |work=Toronto Star |date=August 29, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=August 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210829210923/https://www.thestar.com/sports/bluejays/opinion/2021/08/29/blue-jays-reliever-brad-hand-has-a-simple-solution-to-his-troubles-work-hard-and-compete.html |url-status=live }} In {{frac|8|2|3}} innings across 11 appearances for Toronto, Hand went 0–2 with a 7.27 ERA, and he was designated for assignment on August 31.{{cite news |last=Todd |first=Bijan |title=Blue Jays Designate Brad Hand for Assignment |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/nationals/blue-jays-dfa-former-nationals-pitcher-brad-hand-after-just-one-month |work=NBC Sports Washington |date=August 31, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001517/https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/nationals/blue-jays-dfa-former-nationals-pitcher-brad-hand-after-just-one-month |url-status=live }}

= New York Mets (2021) =

On September 2, 2021, the New York Mets claimed Hand off of waivers from the Blue Jays. Because he was not with the team on September 1, Hand was ineligible to appear in the postseason for the Mets, but was added to the bullpen to help them clinch a potential playoff berth in the final month of the regular season.{{cite news |last=DiComo |first=Anthony |title=Mets claim Hand, gain high-leverage weapon |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-claimed-off-waivers |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=September 2, 2021 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317155132/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-claimed-off-waivers |url-status=live }} This bid was ultimately unsuccessful, as the Mets were eliminated from playoff contention with a 2–1 loss to the Milwaukee Brewers on September 25.{{cite news |last=Thosar |first=Deesha |title=Mets officially eliminated from playoffs; loss ends chances of winning record |url=https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/mets/ny-playoffs-elimination-phillies-20210925-kjtgvsznxvbpxislkicqgob5km-story.html |work=New York Daily News |date=September 25, 2021 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317155131/https://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/mets/ny-playoffs-elimination-phillies-20210925-kjtgvsznxvbpxislkicqgob5km-story.html |url-status=live }} Hand made 16 appearances for New York in September, and while he had a 1–0 record and 2.70 ERA, he also allowed five of the six runners he inherited to score, and the Mets stopped placing him in high-leverage situations as a result.{{cite news |last=Healey |first=Tim |title=Grading the 2021 Mets' pitchers |url=https://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/mets-pitching-2021-jacob-degrom-marcus-stroman-taijuan-walker-1.50384729 |work=Newsday |date=October 8, 2021 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317155129/https://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/mets-pitching-2021-jacob-degrom-marcus-stroman-taijuan-walker-1.50384729 |url-status=live }} He became a free agent at the end of the season.{{cite news |last=Healey |first=Tim |title=Kevin Pillar becomes free agent after he and Mets decline options |url=https://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/kevin-pillar-mets-1.50411517 |work=Newsday |date=November 4, 2021 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317155200/https://www.newsday.com/sports/baseball/mets/kevin-pillar-mets-1.50411517 |url-status=live }}

= Philadelphia Phillies (2022) =

On March 16, 2022, the Philadelphia Phillies signed Hand to a one-year, $6 million contract.{{cite news |last=Zolecki |first=Todd |title=Phillies agree to 1-year deals with Hand, Familia |url=https://www.mlb.com/phillies/news/brad-hand-deal-with-phillies |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=March 15, 2022 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-date=March 17, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220317152704/https://www.mlb.com/phillies/news/brad-hand-deal-with-phillies |url-status=live }} Interim manager Rob Thomson did not assign relief pitchers to specific innings, and Hand was instead utilized in late innings when the Phillies were set to face a string of left-handed batters.{{cite news |last=Lauber |first=Scott |title=How Rob Thomson's unconventional strategy helped turn around the Phillies' bullpen |url=https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/phillies-bullpen-rob-thomson-closer-20220808.html |work=The Philadelphia Inquirer |date=August 8, 2022 |access-date=March 8, 2023 |url-access=limited |archive-date=March 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230308215723/https://www.inquirer.com/phillies/phillies-bullpen-rob-thomson-closer-20220808.html |url-status=live }} He saw increased usage in August when Corey Knebel and Seranthony Domínguez were both sideliend with injuries,{{cite news |last=Palattella |first=Henry |title=Who will be this year's bullpen X-factor? Here are 12 contenders |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/bullpen-x-factors-for-2022-postseason-contenders |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=August 30, 2022 |access-date=March 8, 2023}} before landing on the injured list with left elbow tendinitis at the end of September.{{cite magazine |last=Carr |first=Alex |title=Brad Hand Hits Injured List, Phillies Select Chris Devenski |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/phillies/news/brad-hand-hits-injured-list-philadelphia-phillies-select-chris-devenski-bullpen |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=September 25, 2022 |access-date=March 8, 2023}} Hand appeared in 55 regular-season games for the Phillies, going 3–2 with a 2.80 ERA and five saves in 45 innings. The Phillies advanced to the postseason for the first time since 2011,{{cite news |last=Zolecki |first=Todd |title=Drought over! Phillies clinch 1st postseason berth since '11 |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/phillies-clinch-playoff-berth-with-win-over-astros |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=October 4, 2022 |access-date=March 8, 2023 |archive-date=November 28, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221128150049/https://www.mlb.com/news/phillies-clinch-playoff-berth-with-win-over-astros |url-status=live }} with Hand making seven appearances in the postseason. This included two shutout innings against the Houston Astros during the 2022 World Series, which Philadelphia lost in six games.{{cite news |last=O'Brien |first=Brendan |title=Chaska's Brad Hand pitches in World Series |url=https://www.swnewsmedia.com/chanhassen_villager/news/sports/chaskas-brad-hand-pitches-in-world-series/article_e76cb46c-5ed3-11ed-b62e-eff1eda164d7.html |work=Chanhassen Villager |date=November 7, 2022 |access-date=March 8, 2023 |archive-date=March 8, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230308215724/https://www.swnewsmedia.com/chanhassen_villager/news/sports/chaskas-brad-hand-pitches-in-world-series/article_e76cb46c-5ed3-11ed-b62e-eff1eda164d7.html |url-status=live }}

=Colorado Rockies (2023)=

On March 4, 2023, the Colorado Rockies signed Hand to a one-year, $2 million contract, with a team option for 2024.{{cite news |title=Brad Hand guaranteed $2M in deal with Rockies |url=https://mlb.nbcsports.com/2023/03/06/brad-hand-guaranteed-2m-in-deal-with-rockies/ |work=NBC Sports |agency=Associated Press |date=March 6, 2023 |access-date=March 8, 2023}} Colorado had been in need of a veteran left-handed reliever after losing Lucas Gilbreath to Tommy John surgery.{{cite news |last=Harding |first=Thomas |title=Rockies add lefty Hand on 1-year deal |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-rockies-deal |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=March 4, 2023 |access-date=March 8, 2023 |archive-date=March 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230307224405/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-rockies-deal |url-status=live }} After using exclusively a four-seam fastball and slider combination since 2017, Hand introduced a cutter to his pitch rotation upon joining the Rockies.{{cite news |last=Magruder |first=Jack |title=Hand fortifying Rox's 'pen with new cutter, veteran presence |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-adding-cutter-with-rockies |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advancd Media |date=March 8, 2023 |access-date=September 9, 2024 |archive-date=March 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230323085553/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-adding-cutter-with-rockies |url-status=live }} He had a strong start to the season, with 12 scoreless appearances in his first 16 outings for the Rockies, but then posted a 5.75 ERA in his next 24 appearances.{{cite news |last=Bowman |first=Mark |title=Braves get lefty reliever Hand from Rockies |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-braves-trade |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=August 1, 2023 |access-date=September 9, 2024 |archive-date=August 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803102726/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-braves-trade |url-status=live }} This included back-to-back July outings in which he allowed four runs in one inning against the Detroit Tigers, followed by two runs in {{frac|1|2|3}} innings against the San Francisco Giants.{{cite magazine |last=Crosby |first=Lindsay |title=Breaking: Braves are acquiring LHP Brad Hand from Colorado Rockies |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/braves/news/braves-baseball-mlb-trade-deadline-brad-hand-colorado-rockies |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=August 1, 2023 |access-date=September 9, 2024}} In 40 appearances for the Rockies that season, Hand had a 4.54 ERA, striking out 41 batters in {{frac|35|2|3}} innings.{{cite news |last=Gonzalez |first=Alden |title=Braves get reliever Brad Hand from Rockies for minor leauger |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38114748/braves-get-reliever-brad-hand-rockies-minor-leaguer |work=ESPN |date=August 1, 2023 |access-date=September 9, 2024 |archive-date=November 29, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231129164107/https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/38114748/braves-get-reliever-brad-hand-rockies-minor-leaguer |url-status=live }}

=Atlanta Braves (2023)=

On August 1, 2023, the Rockies traded Hand to the Atlanta Braves in exchange for minor league pitcher Alec Barger. There, he was their third left-handed option out of the bullpen, behind A. J. Minter and Dylan Lee.{{cite news |last=Beazley |first=Colin |title=Braves activate Brad Hand, place Daysbel Hernandez on IL |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/braves-activate-brad-hand-place-daysbel-hernandez-on-il/3TX2EW6RONCBXJMRA6RWEJNV5E/ |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |date=August 2, 2023 |access-date=September 9, 2024 |url-access=limited |archive-date=August 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230803020220/https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/braves-activate-brad-hand-place-daysbel-hernandez-on-il/3TX2EW6RONCBXJMRA6RWEJNV5E/ |url-status=live }} He made 20 appearances after the trade, during which he went 2–2 with a 7.50 ERA, striking out 18 batters in 18 innings. Hand also pitched one inning in Game 3 of the 2023 NLDS against the Phillies,{{cite web |title=2023 NL Division Series – Philadelphia Phillies over Atlanta Braves (3–1) |url=https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2023_NLDS1.shtml |website=Baseball-Reference.com |access-date=September 9, 2024 |archive-date=May 15, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240515125521/https://www.baseball-reference.com/postseason/2023_NLDS1.shtml |url-status=live }} during which he allowed a home run to Bryce Harper.{{cite news |last=Burns |first=Gabriel |title=Bryce Harper continues tormenting Braves, with or without extra motivation |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/bryce-harper-continues-tormenting-braves-with-or-without-extra-motivation/OTFKOIORRRFLFECO3QCWPXBLDM/ |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |date=October 11, 2023 |access-date=September 9, 2024 |url-access=limited}} At the end of the season, the Braves declined their end of Hand's $7 million mutual option for 2024, making him a free agent.{{cite news |last=Toscano |first=Justin |title=Braves decline their end of Brad Hand's mutual option |url=https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/braves-expected-to-decline-their-end-of-brad-hands-mutual-option/2O6YJOBPE5DT3JSL5ALU6Z734E/ |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |date=November 5, 2023 |access-date=September 9, 2024 |url-access=limited |archive-date=November 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231106102217/https://www.ajc.com/sports/atlanta-braves/braves-expected-to-decline-their-end-of-brad-hands-mutual-option/2O6YJOBPE5DT3JSL5ALU6Z734E/ |url-status=live }}

Pitching style

Hand's signature pitch is his slider, which he developed in 2015 with the aid of Marlins pitching coach Chuck Hernandez.{{cite news |last=Davis |first=Craig |title=Marlins' patience pays off as Hand seizes opportunity |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/fl-miami-marlins-news-0827-20150826-story.html |work=Sun-Sentinel |date=August 26, 2015 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=July 29, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210729202105/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/fl-miami-marlins-news-0827-20150826-story.html |url-status=live }} He used the pitch less than 10 percent of the time during his final season in Miami, but it made up 36 percent of his pitches with the Padres in 2016 and 44 percent in 2017.{{cite news |last=Anderson |first=A. J. |title=How Brad Hand's slider helped him go from afterthought waiver claim to stud closer traded before the deadline |url=https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/how-brad-hands-slider-helped-him-go-from-afterthought-waiver-claim-to-stud-closer-traded-before-deadline/ |work=CBS Sports |date=July 19, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=July 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180721124529/https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/how-brad-hands-slider-helped-him-go-from-afterthought-waiver-claim-to-stud-closer-traded-before-deadline/ |url-status=live }} By 2019, more than half of his pitchers were sliders.{{cite news |last=Hoynes |first=Paul |title=What to expect from Brad Hand with the Cleveland Indians in 2020 |url=https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/03/what-to-expect-from-brad-hand-with-the-cleveland-indians-in-2020.html |work=The Plain Dealer |date=March 20, 2020 |access-date=March 18, 2022 |archive-date=May 26, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210526143833/https://www.cleveland.com/tribe/2020/03/what-to-expect-from-brad-hand-with-the-cleveland-indians-in-2020.html |url-status=live }} The slider effectively replaced Hand's curveball, which he abandoned when he became a relief pitcher, as he had difficulty throwing it for strikes.{{cite news |last=Meisel |first=Zack |title=Brad Hand's rise from waiver-wire resident to slider-slinging All-Star |url=https://theathletic.com/1087161/2019/07/22/brad-hands-rise-from-waiver-wire-resident-to-slider-slinging-all-star/ |work=The Athletic |date=July 22, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |url-access=subscription |archive-date=October 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201027182906/https://theathletic.com/1087161/2019/07/22/brad-hands-rise-from-waiver-wire-resident-to-slider-slinging-all-star/ |url-status=live }} The slider is paired with a fastball, which is typically thrown as a sinker. Hand prefers to use the sinking fastball against right-handed hitters, either on the first pitch or when ahead on strikes. At their peak in 2018, Hand's average velocity was {{convert|93.6|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} for his fastball and {{convert|82.1|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} for his slider. Two years later, these speeds had dropped to {{convert|91.4|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} for the fastball and {{convert|79.6|mph|km/h|abbr=on}} for the slider.{{cite news |last=Dougherty |first=Jesse |title=Brad Hand thrived with lower velocity in 2020. With the Nats, he wants to bring back the heat |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/01/26/brad-hand-fastball-velocity-nationals/ |newspaper=The Washington Post |date=January 26, 2021 |access-date=March 17, 2022 |url-access=limited |archive-date=February 5, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210205120829/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/01/26/brad-hand-fastball-velocity-nationals/ |url-status=live }}

Personal life

Hand married his wife Morgan on February 28, 2015,{{cite news |last=Rodriguez |first=Juan C. |title=Miami Marlins notes: First outing as married man a success for Brad Hand |url=https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/sfl-miami-marlins-brad-hand-blog-20150302-story.html |work=Sun-Sentinel |date=March 2, 2015 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=July 4, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210704093311/https://www.sun-sentinel.com/sports/miami-marlins/sfl-miami-marlins-brad-hand-blog-20150302-story.html |url-status=live }} and they had their first child together that same year.{{cite news |last=Lambert |first=Lindsay |title=A Happy Home Base: Inside Brad Hand's House |url=https://www.palmbeachillustrated.com/a-happy-home-base-inside-brad-hands-house/ |work=Palm Beach Illustrated |date=February 18, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=September 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210918154728/https://www.palmbeachillustrated.com/a-happy-home-base-inside-brad-hands-house/ |url-status=live }} Their second child, Cuyler, was born in 2017.{{cite news |last=Matz |first=Eddie |title=Beards, bunnies and Airbnb: What it's REALLY like to get traded |url=https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/27212402/beards-bunnies-airbnb-really-get-traded |work=ESPN |date=July 22, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=September 15, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210915112535/https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/27212402/beards-bunnies-airbnb-really-get-traded |url-status=live }} During the baseball offseason, the Hands live in Jupiter, Florida.{{cite news |last=Hand |first=Barb |title=Brad Hand: Chaska's all star |url=https://www.swnewsmedia.com/chaska_herald/news/sports/brad-hand-chaskas-all-star/article_d1b297b1-4764-54c0-a5e9-f29c5f365566.html |work=Chaska Herald |date=September 3, 2021 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001523/https://www.swnewsmedia.com/chaska_herald/news/sports/brad-hand-chaskas-all-star/article_d1b297b1-4764-54c0-a5e9-f29c5f365566.html |url-status=live }}

In 2019, shortly after he was traded to the Indians, Hand began the Helping Hands charity organization. Originally created to aid the Cleveland chapter of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, the organization also aids youth baseball and softball organizations and has partnered with OhioGuidestone, which provides foster care, family services, and behavioral health services around the Cleveland area.{{cite news |last=Bell |first=Mandy |title=For Brad Hand, volunteering runs in family |url=https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-honored-to-be-roberto-clemente-award-nominee |work=MLB.com |publisher=MLB Advanced Media |date=September 6, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=October 22, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201022160333/https://www.mlb.com/news/brad-hand-honored-to-be-roberto-clemente-award-nominee |url-status=live }}{{cite news |last=Finnan |first=Bob |title=Indians pitcher Brad Hand's Helping Hands Foundation makes appearance in Medina |url=https://medina-gazette.com/news/232195/indians-pitcher-brad-hands-helping-hands-foundation-makes-appearance-in-medina/ |work=The Gazette |location=Medina, OH |date=August 20, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=March 20, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220320001533/https://medina-gazette.com/news/232195/indians-pitcher-brad-hands-helping-hands-foundation-makes-appearance-in-medina/ |url-status=live }} Hand was the Indians' 2020 nominee for the Roberto Clemente Award, given for sportsmanship and philanthropy.{{cite magazine |last=Loede |first=Matt |title=Indians Closer Brad Hand Selected as a Nominee for the 2020 Roberto Clemente Award |url=https://www.si.com/mlb/indians/news/indians-closer-brad-hand-selected-as-a-nominee-for-the-2020-roberto-clemente-award |magazine=Sports Illustrated |date=September 3, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2022 |archive-date=September 4, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200904104358/https://www.si.com/mlb/indians/news/indians-closer-brad-hand-selected-as-a-nominee-for-the-2020-roberto-clemente-award |url-status=live }}