Kiké Hernández Gave Andrew Friedman Chance to Match Offer From Yankees Before Returning to Dodgers
Kiké Hernandez had lots of interest during free agency but no offers until around three weeks ago. That’s when the New York Yankees made him an offer to be a back-up player and play on days to give starters a rest.
He didn’t share that vision for his own playing time, but it was all Hernandez had until he picked up the phone and called Los Angeles Dodgers president of operations Andrew Friedman himself.
Hernandez has known Friedman for quite some time, and felt like their relationship was close enough that he could make that type of call, rather than his agent.
“I talked to Andrew and I was like, ‘Hey, if we can’t make something happen in the next couple of days, I’m going to have to turn the page and go somewhere else because I need to do what’s best for me and my family,’’ Hernandez told reporters. “I felt like opportunities were starting to go away by waiting too long.”
— Kiké Hernandez via USA Today
Friedman told the super utility player to give him a couple of days and he would get back to him. A man of his word, Friedman traded Manuel Margot to the Minnesota Twins to make room for Hernandez and the two parties agreed to a one-year, $4 million contract.
Through two Cactus League games this spring, Hernandez is 2-for-5 with two doubles and a run scored while playing center field for one game and as the designated hitter in the other.
Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
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Kiké did what he did He showed interest in the Dodgers as usual and he’s amazing as usual we have been fans of Kiké for a long time. You not only has other personality, he’s funnier than usual and he is an amazing player from one end to the other except for pitching and catching of course. I’m glad the main man got him on.
Kike we all are glad your back at least for one more year. Don’t know why they got rid of you in the first place. Another one that I don’t know why they let him get away is Cory Seager. Any way Kike thanks for loving us Dodger fans just as much as we love you. We all hope you have an amazing year.