Dodgers News: Kiké Hernandez Reinstated From 15-Day Disabled List

The Los Angeles Dodgers reinstated utility man Kiké Hernandez from the 15-day disabled list ahead of an important series against the San Francisco Giants. Hernandez went down with a hamstring strain on Aug. 30 and missed a total of 26 games in that span.

In his absence, Los Angeles inserted Joc Pederson back into center field, and relied on Chase Utley and Jose Peraza to contribute in the infield. However, some of that was disrupted as Peraza joined the group of Dodgers to be sidelined by injury.

As for Hernandez, Dodgers manager Don Mattingly didn’t have much doubt the versatile utility man would return this season.

Hernandez was sent to the club’s Spring Training complex for the final stages of his rehabilitation process, which included getting at-bats against Minor Leaguers. Prior to his injury, Hernandez was having a solid season on both offense and defense. 

At the plate he batted .308/.350./.492 with six home runs and 21 RBIs. On the defensive side of things, Hernandez played several positions including outfield, shortstop, second base and third base.

Mattingly anticipated Hernandez’s return and praised the young Puerto Rican native for the energy and versatility he brings to the team. Hernandez coming off the DL Monday gives the Dodgers another key contributor for the final week of the regular season, and puts the club at 38 players on the active roster.