Dodgers Nearing Deal With Kiké Hernández Following Manuel Margot Trade
The Los Angeles Dodgers are close to bringing back fan favorite utility man Kiké Hernández. ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported the one-year deal is close.
Hernández, 32, has been holding off on signing all offseason looking for the perfect deal. On Monday, it appears he got it.
The Dodgers traded outfielder Manuel Margot to the Minnesota Twins on Monday, clearing a spot both on the 40-man and expected 26-man roster. Then, they wasted no time trying to fill it.
Hernández was acquired by the Dodgers ahead of the 2023 trade deadline. After struggling mightily in Boston in 2023, he was a little better in Los Angeles, slashing .262/.308/.423 with five home runs and 30 runs batted in across 54 games. He had just six home runs and 31 RBIs in 86 games with Boston.
Hernández is also able to play all over the infield and outfield, providing great depth and versatility to a team.
Lastly, he’s a great clubhouse presence, and will bring the fun energy to the Dodgers every single day.
Clearly, Hernández wanted to end up in L.A., as he wasted no time breaking the news of his deal on his own social media account.
With Hernández set to return to Los Angeles, the Dodgers 13 position players remain set — just with Hernández on it instead of Margot.
Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-USA TODAY Sports
Kike is More versatile than Margot. He Can play every position, not just outfield. About equal otherwise. Maybe he is not quite as good a hitter or outfielder. Margot had a 2 year contract. They had to take Margot to get Glasnow. Kike is Probably helpful in the clubhouse. I Wonder how good the shortstop prospect is they got from Minnesota.
Kiki is Dodger family!
Welcome back, Kike! Unfortunately, that also means that Friedman-Gomes did NOT need to trade away Jonny DeLuca. WTF?
They targeted Glasgow and had to take Margot a good hitter. However, once they signed FA T. Hernandez as a full time OF Margot became expendable to LAD. Probably a mutual decision with both camps.