Having agreed to terms with Howie Kendrick on a two-year, $20 million contract last week, the Los Angeles Dodgers have a bit of a logjam at second base. On top of Kiké Hernandez and Chase Utley, Los Angeles also has Micah Johnson, who was acquired from the Chicago White Sox.
Hernandez and Utley were expected to platoon this season, with Johnson waiting in the wings and perhaps earning an occasional start. The 25 year old was recently ranked the seventh-best prospect at second base by MLB.com.
Although Kendrick’s re-signing changes what role Hernandez and Utley are likely to play for the Dodgers in 2016, there’s no evidence of bitterness or frustration over the situation.
“I’m excited. He helps the team, he’s a great ball player,” Hernandez said. “He’s consistent, he puts up numbers every single year.”
Utley, who re-signed last December on a one-year, $7 million deal, echoed a similar sentiment. The veteran played three games at third base last season, and figures to receive more time there in a second go-around with the Dodgers.
Hernandez was of course a super utility player for the club prior to cementing himself in center field down the stretch of the season. He has no qualms in repeating that role. “I’m not just a second baseman, I could play everywhere,” Hernandez said.
“I can play six different positions, so it is what it is. Same role as last year. Nothing changes.” Hernandez joked he hasn’t yet discussed playing all nine positions with manager Dave Roberts.
Hernandez also said he’s recovering well from offseason shoulder surgery. “I’ve been here for three weeks now finishing up the rehab. Hopefully there’s no setbacks and I’ll be ready for spring,” he said.
