Dodgers News: Brandon Gomes Explains Why LA Traded For Kiké Hernández, Amed Rosario

The Dodgers made a few smaller moves at the trade deadline rather than going out and making a big splash. At the time, it seemed as if they hadn’t done enough, but fast-forwarding a few weeks and the team is rolling. 

They have only lost three games in the month of August, and they are clicking on all cylinders. The smaller moves that they made have gone a long way in the overall success of the team. 

This includes trading for two right-handed batters, Amed Rosario and Kiké Hernandez. Both have come in and helped turn around the entire season for LA.

General Manager Brandon Gomes recently spoke about the acquisitions and why the team made the moves they did. They were both brought in to help with the left-handed hitting issue that has plagued the team and so far, they both are doing exactly what they are supposed to be doing.

“Kiké is fully capable against right-handed pitchers as well,” Gomes said. “His swing had gotten out of whack. Our hitting coaches were confident there were things they could address in his swing that would get him back to performing at a high level. It’s a little knowing he could be elite in that role, hit right-handed pitchers, and his instincts and defense are as good as anyone’s in the game.”

Per the OC Register

Hernandez seems like a completely different player since he rejoined LA. He looks revitalized and excited to be back with the team that he spent six seasons with. 

Through his first 25 games back with the Dodgers, Hernandez is hitting .296 with 15 runs batted in. In the 86 games that he spent with the Boston Red Sox this season, Hernandez hit only .222 with 31 runs batted in. It’s a clear difference and a steal of a trade for the Dodgers.

As for Rosario, he has come in and just worked. Gomes alluded to his work ethic with the coaches as something he has been happy to see. 

“He’d historically been fantastic vs. left-handers,” Gomes said. “His defensive metrics at shortstop were not indicative of how talented he is. He was all-in about diving in with our coaches about working at second base.”

Per The OC Register

Through 21 games with LA, Rosario has hit .231 with 12 runs batted in. He has helped plug a hole in their infield and it’s been great to see him buying into the team culture.

Both players bring their own set of strengths to the table, and you have to applaud the Dodgers for the moves. They were a little under the radar but have worked out fabulously so far.

If there is a lesson in all of this, it’s to not doubt President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman until we see the product on the field.

Photo Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

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