Coming off a regular season and postseason that were played under limitations brought about an ongoing pandemic, MLB free agency has been predictably slow-moving thus far. Each of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ free agents, including Kiké Hernandez, remains available.
From the Dodgers’ perspective, Hernandez is accompanied by Pedro Baez, Jake McGee, Joc Pederson, Jimmy Nelson, Blake Treinen, Justin Turner and Alex Wood. Hernandez is arguably second only to Turner in terms of importance and role to the team.
Though to this point there’s been little to indicate how interested in the Dodgers are in re-signing Hernandez. President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman recently said he encourages players to enjoy the free agency process they worked toward reaching.
What that may ultimately lead to will be decided in the weeks and perhaps months ahead, but for now the Minnesota Twins are a team with interest in Hernandez, according to Darren Wolfson of SKOR North:
#MNTwins have expressed interest in Hernandez. As Peter and others have volunteered since free agency started, his fit is very clear. https://t.co/fKyAzxPKzM
— Darren Wolfson (@DWolfsonKSTP) December 5, 2020
Hernandez’s versatility presumably is a draw for the Twins, who have seen Marwin Gonzalez and Ehire Adrianza become free agents. Gonzalez played first base, second base, third base, shortstop, left field and right field over the past two seasons.
Adrianza did the same in his four seasons with Minnesota. Those of course are positions Hernandez is quite comfortable — and capable — playing. He earned the starting job at second base heading into the 2019 season, but struggled at the plate and was reverted back to a utility role.
Since a breakout season in 2015, which was Hernandez’s first with the Dodgers, he’s yet to bat over .256 and or surpass an .806 on-base plus slugging percentage. Hernandez has offset struggles at the plate with stellar defense and typically hitting left-handers well.
How Dodgers may replace Hernandez
If Hernandez is to sign elsewhere, the Dodgers may look inward and ask Zach McKinstry to fill the role. He impressed in the Minors to close the 2019 season and rode that momentum into Spring Training and through Summer Camp this year.
While McKinstry was left off the Opening Day roster, he did make his MLB debut later in the season.
Have you subscribed to our YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, exclusive coverage from events, participate in our shows, and more!
