The Washington Nationals declined comment on a report they have reached an agreement with 44-year-old Orlando Hernandez on a minor league contract, but his half-brother, Livan, says El Duque is on his way to the organization.

Orlando Hernandez last pitched in the majors in 2007 with the New York Mets.

"We're really happy for him to come back and pitch again," Livan Hernandez said. "I don't know how they are going to use him, but he is in good shape and he throws every day, working out every day."

El Duque is 90-65 with a 4.13 ERA in a 10-year career highlighted by pitching for four World Series winners (Yankees, 1998-2000 and White Sox, 2005).

Livan Hernandez says he speaks with Orlando nearly every day, and he's known about the comeback for about a week.

"He feels good," Livan Hernandez said. "He's in better shape than anybody in baseball. It's unbelievable. He throws the ball good in the offseason in Venezuela — up to 93, 94. I think it could be good."