Kiké Hernandez Reveals ‘Main Priority’ in Free Agency, Talks Potential Return to Dodgers
Los Angeles Dodgers fan favorite Kiké Hernández made his intentions clear: He wants to return to the Dodgers in 2025.
Hernández appeared on The Shop in a video published on Tuesday, and said his “main priority” is returning to the Dodgers. However, as of now, he has no idea where he’s going to play next season.
“I wish I knew,” Hernández said when asked where he’ll be playing next season. “Main priority for me would probably be coming back. I think this team — the Dodgers are very well positioned to make another run and be the first back to back team since the New York Yankees in ’99 and 2000.”
While Hernández prefers a return to the Dodgers, he understands that may not be in the cards. If he isn’t able to re-sign with L.A., he made it known what type of team he would want to join.
“If not (the Dodgers), then somewhere where the team is positioned to go on a deep run in October, because I need to have October baseball. That’s part of who I am,” Hernández said. “I’m kind of addicted to playoff baseball and I need that in my life.”
Hernández is known for his versatility as a utility player, being able to play all over the diamond. However, his No. 1 trait is his ability to rise in big moments, especially when the lights are brightest in October.
While Hernández has a career OPS of .713 across his 11-year regular season career, in the postseason, Hernández’s OPS rises to .874. He’s played in 86 postseason games in his career, and has won two World Series championships, both with the Dodgers.
Hernández has endeared himself to Dodger fans since he joined the team in 2015. He was with L.A. from 2015-20, and then re-joined the club at the 2023 trade deadline. He re-upped with L.A. on a one-year deal last offseason.
While Hernández had a trying regular season in 2024, hitting .229 with 12 home runs and 42 RBIs, he came alive in October, hitting .294 with two home runs and an OPS of .808.
Photo Credit: Jason Parkhurst-Imagn Images
Kike Hernandez is versatile player that can play any position. Look the way he played third base in the World Series, center field, and if I am not wrong, I believe he also played second base. In addition, he is a morale raiser, who is well liked by all the players. He is truly an ambassador of the game.
Yes we need Kiki back….I wanted Dodgers to trade Ct3 to cubs for Beli, put Beli in Center move mookie to second…..