The Los Angeles Dodgers have had a busy offseason after winning the 2024 World Series. In the last week alone, the organization has signed Hye-seong Kim to bolster their infield depth and made the surprising decision to trade away second baseman Gavin Lux. While the trade of Lux raises questions about the Dodgers’ infield situation, it also opens the door to a potential reunion with a beloved fan favorite, Kiké Hernández.
Hernández, a versatile and well-liked player who spent several seasons with the Dodgers before being traded away in 2022, could once again find himself donning the Dodger blue. His return would give the Dodgers even more flexibility, as the 31-year-old is an experienced utilityman who has played all over the infield and outfield during his career. The Dodgers have always valued versatility in their players, and Hernández embodies that trait with his ability to contribute at multiple positions.
The influx of infielders to the Dodgers roster began with the signing of Kim, who is expected to play a utility role, especially in light of Lux’s departure. According to Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times, the Dodgers initially planned to use Kim as a utility piece, with Lux starting at second base. However, following Lux’s trade to the Cincinnati Reds, the door has opened for Kim to take on the primary second baseman role. While Kim’s signing offers some stability in the infield, the potential for Hernández’s return would further enhance the Dodgers’ depth.
Hernández’s ability to play multiple positions would give the Dodgers the flexibility to use him across the infield and outfield, while also providing them with an experienced presence in the clubhouse. His versatility was a key component of the Dodgers’ championship run in the past, and a reunion with him could be an appealing option for a team that thrives on adaptability and depth.
Though Hernández’s 2024 season was somewhat underwhelming overall, his second-half performance and his postseason numbers suggest he still has plenty of value. In the first half of the 2024 season, Hernández posted a disappointing .229/.281/.373 slash line. However, it was discovered that he had been dealing with astigmatism in his right eye, which had been affecting his vision and performance at the plate. After switching to glasses, Hernández’s numbers took a noticeable turn for the better. In the second half of the season, he slashed a far more impressive .274/.304/.458 with seven home runs. His improvement was especially evident in the postseason, where he posted a .294/.357/.451 slash line with 23 total bases, two home runs, and 15 hits.
Hernández’s ability to turn it on when it matters most is a trait that cannot be overlooked. His postseason track record has been stellar, with a career OPS of .874 in the postseason, a testament to his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations. Hernández is a two-time World Series champion, having been part of the 2018 Boston Red Sox team and the 2020 Dodgers championship squad. His experience and success on the biggest stage would make him a valuable addition to the Dodgers’ already formidable roster as they look to defend their title in 2025.
One of the primary benefits of bringing back Hernández is his cost-effectiveness. Given his age and the fact that he is coming off a year with relatively modest statistics, Hernández would likely be a cheap addition for the Dodgers. This allows the team to add a player with a proven track record in big games without committing significant financial resources. Given the Dodgers’ deep pockets and penchant for finding value in free agency, the addition of Hernández would be a smart move from both a financial and roster-building perspective.
Hernández’s return would also address an area of need for the Dodgers. With Lux gone, the Dodgers have a gap to fill at second base, and while Kim is likely to assume that role, having Hernández in the mix would give them even more depth and flexibility. Hernández could serve as a backup for Kim or even slide into a platoon role, giving the team the ability to mix and match matchups depending on the opposing pitcher. In a season where injuries and rest days are inevitable, having a player like Hernández who can step in at multiple positions would be invaluable.
Furthermore, Hernández’s leadership in the clubhouse would be a welcome addition to the Dodgers’ culture. He is a fan favorite who has established strong connections with teammates and the fanbase alike. His upbeat personality, experience in high-stakes situations, and championship pedigree would bring a level of cohesion and confidence to a team that will look to defend its World Series title in 2025.
The Dodgers’ decision to trade Lux has raised some eyebrows, but it also presents an opportunity for the organization to reassess its infield and make a move that could benefit the team in the long run. Lux was a key contributor during the Dodgers’ championship run in 2024, particularly with his clutch postseason performances. However, his struggles earlier in the season and the emergence of other players like Kim created a scenario where trading him made sense for the franchise. The Dodgers continue to position themselves as a team that is always looking to improve and stay ahead of the competition, and that flexibility was on display when they made the decision to trade Lux.
With Kim now stepping into a larger role, the Dodgers will look to build upon the foundation they have established in the infield. The potential reunion with Hernández would add another layer of depth, experience, and flexibility, further solidifying the Dodgers as one of the most well-rounded teams in baseball. Hernández’s skill set as a utilityman, coupled with his ability to perform in critical moments, makes him an attractive option for a team like the Dodgers, who are always looking for ways to maximize their roster.
In conclusion, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ offseason has been marked by key moves, including the signing of Hye-seong Kim and the trade of Gavin Lux. While these moves have reshaped the team’s infield, they have also opened the door for the possible return of Kiké Hernández, a fan favorite and a proven postseason performer. Hernández’s versatility, leadership, and experience make him a natural fit for the Dodgers in 2025, and his reunion with the team could prove to be one of the best low-cost additions of the offseason. As the Dodgers look to defend their World Series title, having a player like Hernández in the fold could make all the difference in what promises to be another exciting season.
