Dodgers News: Kiké Hernández Finally Feels Like Himself Again After Offseason Surgery
The Dodgers have star power in spades, having committed more than $1.2 billion to free agents since last season ended. Utility player Kiké Hernández is somewhat of an afterthought against this backdrop. He was a last-minute addition to the clubhouse midway through spring training, only signing a one-year, $4 million contract on Feb. 26 after the Dodgers traded Manuel Margot to the Minnesota Twins.
The former World Series champion is nonetheless an important piece of the Dodgers’ roster. Hernández shows up when it matters most and brings life to the clubhouse and dugout.
On the field, the Dodgers will need Hernández to deliver on the field, too. After last season ended, the 32-year-old underwent double hernia surgery in late October. It was a slight setback to his offseason schedule; however, he’s on track to be ready for Opening Day.
Hernández spoke to Mike DiGiovanna of the Los Angeles Times and said this is the best he’s felt in a while.
“It was probably the first time ever I’ve been excited that somebody told me I needed surgery. The last few years, I haven’t been myself, and it showed in the numbers. But I feel great, I feel strong, I feel I’m where I need to be to put myself in the best position to help the team in whatever capacity it needs. Now, it’s just about getting back into the rhythm of baseball because I signed late.”
— Kiké Hernández, via the Los Angeles Times
Hernández played in 54 games as a Dodger in 2023. His numbers increased immediately after he was acquired from the Boston Red Sox at the trade deadline. He slashed .262/.308/.423 with a .731 OPS, hit five home runs, and collected 30 RBIs.
Clearly, Hernández believes there’s more potential to be unlocked in his bat.
“The last few years, I haven’t been myself, and it showed in the numbers. But I feel great, I feel strong, I feel I’m where I need to be to put myself in the best position to help the team in whatever capacity it needs. Now, it’s just about getting back into the rhythm of baseball because I signed late.”
— Kiké Hernández, via the Los Angeles Times
Hernández is ready to bolster this already deep lineup in a huge way, ready to physically persevere through a full 162-game season.
Photo Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? Subscribe and hit that notification bell to stay up to date on all the latest Dodgers news, rumors, interviews, livestreams, and more!
