Dodgers’ Kiké Hernandez Linked to NL Rival as Potential Free Agent Signing

The Los Angeles Dodgers recently dealt infielder Gavin Lux to the Cincinnati Reds which opened the door for a reunion with fan favorite Kiké Hernandez.

However, there might be some competition when signing the free agent utility man.

Hernandez has been linked to the Philadelphia Phillies in a recent article from Eno Sarris of The Athletic. Sarris suggests the NL East powerhouse consider the two-time World Series champion because their outfield defense is one of the league’s worst. Hernandez has the ability to improve the Phillies’ defense wherever he plays, but the outfield is what needs the most help.

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“But would a player like Kiké Hernández make more sense?” Sarris asked. “He’s more of a sure thing offensively and rated as a positive defensively at all of his positions. He could come into games late to spell Castellanos and keep the outfield defense above water, and he’d generally be available at any position should the need arise. The only problem would be that any dollar they spend on Hernández will cost them double due to their luxury tax situation. Might be worth it, though, to round out that bench.”

While Hernandez should have options regarding his future, he has stated that he would like to return to the Dodgers.

“I would love to be back,” Hernandez said earlier this offseason. “I truly believe that — we won the World Series a couple of days ago — but I truly believe that this team is gonna be even better next year with all the pitching reinforcements.”

Hernández struggled at the plate last season, finishing with a .229/.281/.373 slash line. However, his performance improved significantly in the second half, aided by an important discovery, as he had astigmatism in his right eye, which prompted him to start wearing glasses.

After making the switch, Hernández posted a much stronger .274/.304/.458 slash line in the second half, adding seven home runs to his tally. He carried that momentum into the postseason, where he delivered a .294/.357/.451 slash line, collecting 23 total bases. His playoff contributions included 15 hits and two home runs.

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Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports

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