Brandon Gomes Reveals Why Dodgers Signed Kiké Hernández, Traded Manuel Margot

The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially announced the re-signing of utility man and fan favorite Kiké Hernández on a one-year, $4 million deal.

Hernández will don the Dodger blue for at least one more year, and the front office did some maneuvering to ensure he remained in Los Angeles in 2024.

Before Monday, the chances of the 32-year-old returning to Los Angeles looked bleak. However, the Dodgers’ front office elected to trade outfielder Manuel Margot, who they acquired in December alongside ace Tyler Glasnow.

The choice between Margot and Hernández was clear to general manager Brandon Gomes. Gomes spoke to the media, including L.A. Times Dodgers beat writer Jack Harris, and detailed why he preferred Hernández over Margot.

“Manny still fit really well. Kiké we just felt fit a little bit better, plus we know what he brings come postseason time, hopefully, in the clubhouse, all those things.”

The familiarity with Hernández is something Gomes and the front office couldn’t pass up on.

Prior to Monday, it was reported by The Atheltic’s Ken Rosenthal that the Twins, Los Angeles Angels, San Francisco Giants, and San Diego Padres were in the mix for his talents. However, in the end, he’s returning to Los Angeles, a place he clearly always wanted to be.

The 32-year-old has hit .240/.312/.425 in his first six years in Dodger Blue. Although his offense has never been the shining spot in his game, what made him valuable for L.A. was his ability to play all over the field.

Hernández is a solid role player and an even better teammate. The Dodgers let Hernández go once already, and they weren’t going to let that happen again.

Photo Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

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