Of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ seven free agents at the start of the offseason, Kiké Hernandez was considered one of the most likely players to sign with a different team due to his desire of becoming an everyday player.
The 29-year-old went on to ink a two-year contract with the Boston Red Sox, with whom he’ll have an opportunity to win the starting job at second base. In his six seasons with the Dodgers, Hernandez played all over the field but saw most of his time at second base.
He shared duties at the position with several players, including Chris Taylor, Max Muncy and Gavin Lux. Now that Hernandez has departed the organization, one of the aforementioned players could be asked to play more second base this season.
During a recent appearance on “Dodger Talk” with David Vassegh, Taylor noted that he is unsure of his role but will be willing to play wherever asked, via AM 570 L.A. Sports:
“I’m not sure if things will change or not. When Kiké and I were both on the field he was typically at second base and I was in the outfield. I’m not sure how it’s going to play out this year. I think there’s still a lot up in the air. I could see it going either way. Maybe because Kiké left, I could see myself playing a little more second than I have in the past. Or we’ve still got Gavin Lux, so if he has a good spring and is swinging a hot bat, obviously he could fill right in at second base and I could be moving around to outfield, shortstop or third base. I don’t know. I’m going to be prepared, as always, to play all over. I just really want to be on the field. That’s the most important thing.
As Taylor noted, it is very possible he will be asked to take on a bigger role at second base this season. Taylor was ranked by The Shredder among the top-10 second basemen heading into the 2021 season.
However, given his ability to play multiple positions, other players such as Lux may receive opportunities as well.
While the Dodgers don’t have a clear-cut starter at second base at the moment, there is no rush to name one. They will likely see how things play out in Spring Training, which officially begins next when pitchers and catchers report to Camelback Ranch.
Taylor’s latest comments are similar to what he expressed last year when acknowledged there’s a mental challenge of playing multiple positions but he is happy to do so on a World Series contender.
Hernandez bids emotional farewell to Dodgers fans
Shortly after it was reported he would be joining the Red Sox, Hernandez shared an emotional video in which he reflected on his stint with the Dodgers and thanked fans.
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