The 2023 MLB trade deadline saw the Los Angeles Dodgers make a pair of reunions by acquiring Joe Kelly and Kiké Hernández, both of whom were part of their 2020 World Series roster.
Kelly was included along with Lance Lynn in a trade with the Chicago White Sox that helped the Dodgers address their starting rotation. Hernández returned to the Dodgers in a trade that sent Minor League pitchers Nick Robertson and Justin Hagenman to the Boston Red Sox.
The Dodgers trading for Hernández stemmed from the team looking to add a right-handed hitter to their group of position players.
Hernández, Kelly and Lynn each became a free agent after the 2023 season. In the cases of Lynn and Kelly, it was due to the Dodgers declining team options. Kelly has since agreed to re-sign with the Dodgers, and Lynn joined the St. Louis Cardinals.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers also have interest in re-signing Hernández, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:
Another possibility for the Dodgers, who are seeking a right-handed utility/outfield bat: A reunion with free agent Kiké Hernández, who underwent double-hernia surgery on Oct. 24 but should be ready for spring training.
While the Dodgers are primarily focused on Shohei Ohtani and starting pitching in free agency, the outfield figures to be addressed as well. Particularly with manager Dave Roberts revealing the Dodgers plan to move Mookie Betts to second base on a permanent basis.
Thus far in the outfield, L.A. has re-signed Jason Heyward to a one-year, $9 million contract. They’ve been connected to Joc Pederson, Teoscar Hernández, and a potential trade for Max Kepler.
Kiké Hernández addresses free agency
When Hernández last was a free agent in 2020, he coveted an everyday role and signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Red Sox.
Boston then signed Hernández to a one-year, $10 million contract extension in September 2022.
The super utility man was more productive with the Dodgers than the Red Sox this past season, but may not be in position to make commands about playing time.
That’s among the factors Hernández is weighing in free agency this time around and he mentioned having interest in re-signing with the Dodgers.
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