Toronto FC acquires defensive depth with Jason Hernandez

Toronto FC signed defender Jason Hernandez on a free transfer Tuesday, with the former New York City FC man set to be added to the squad upon receipt of his International Transfer Certificate.

"We are pleased to add another experienced, veteran defender in Jason Hernandez," said Toronto FC general manager Tim Bezbatchenko. "Jason is a player we have watched for some time. With his experience in MLS including the playoffs and his familiarity with some of our current players we felt he would be a welcome addition to our club."

Hernandez, 33, was a free agent after NYCFC decided against the option to extend his contract at the end of the 2016 term, and was an unused substitute as his former employer bowed out to Toronto FC over two legs of last season's Eastern Conference semifinals. Before plying his trade at Yankee Stadium, the three-time Puerto Rico international turned out for the New York MetroStars, Chivas USA, and the San Jose Earthquakes in Major League Soccer.

At San Jose, Hernandez partnered current TFC mainstays Justin Morrow and Steven Beitashour at the back.