Livan Hernandez hoping to join Nationals in coaching capacity

Livan Hernandez never officially announced his retirement from Major League Baseball, but that isn't stopping him from looking towards a future off the pitching mound.

That future, according to Hernandez, would ideally involve a job with the Washington Nationals.

The 38-year-old was invited to the Nats' fan fest, but even before he showed up in the nation's capital he discussed his love for the city with MLB.com, hinting that something could be in the works already.

"I'm coming to a great city of baseball. They have the best owners in baseball, and probably the best man in baseball -- [general manager] Mike Rizzo," Hernandez said over the phone on Friday.

Following the event on Saturday, Hernandez said he would like to help the Nationals' pitchers in some capacity, but he remained coy on a possible role. 

"I don't know. ... We'll talk about that and see what's going on," Hernandez said about his possible future in baseball. "I'll see what the plans are. Let's see what happens. I'd love to come back over here. It would be great."

Hernandez spent just over six full seasons with the Expos/Nationals organization, and was a fan favorite during his time in Washington. He threw the first pitch in the history of the Nationals franchise, while also making an All-Star appearance as a member of the club in 2005.

And based on the comments of general manager Mike Rizzo, Hernandez's wish may come true. 

"[Hernandez] brings a lot to the table," Rizzo said. "First of all, he is loved by everybody -- ownership, front office, the general manager loves him, all the players love him, and he has a wealth of knowledge that he can impart on a young pitching staff.

"I like having him around. His attitude is infectious, his knowledge is great. If the pitchers are smart, they will hang around Livo enough and get some finer points to be a Major League pitcher."