With players and fans alike looking to fill the void created by the 2020 Major League Baseball being delayed due to the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, social media has become an outlet for all.
Particularly those living in the state of California, as Gov. Gavin Newsom implemented a statewide shelter-in-place order last week. The hope is limiting social interactions will assist with slowing the spread of the coronavirus, and as it relates to MLB, the sport returning.
As fans take to social media to maintain lines of communication and joy, one of the more popular trends that’s taken hold is doing pushups and passing along the challenge. It landed on Kiké Hernandez, who completed his in full uniform on Instagram.
After doing the 10 pushups, Hernandez challenged his Los Angeles Dodgers teammates Joc Pederson and Justin Turner, among others.
Kiké went full uniform for his pushups challenge, and passed it along to JT, Joc, Lindor and Howie, among others. #Dodgers pic.twitter.com/BDEcptWDka
— Dodger Blue (@DodgerBlue1958) March 24, 2020
Hernandez appeared in 11 Cactus League games this year, batting .300/.323/.667 with two doubles, three home runs and nine RBI. The results further validated a swing change he made during offseason with a focus on not opening his hips too early.
After a strong showing in 2018, Hernandez experienced some regression last year and allowed an opportunity to become the everyday second baseman slip through his hands. In a change from previous years, Hernandez spent the entirety of last winter training in Arizona.
As for the social media challenge, Pederson and Turner are both active through their respective accounts and it can be safely presumed each will take Hernandez up.
Meanwhile, Turner has continued to provide for those in need through the Justin Turner Foundation by ensuring The Dream Center receives daily food deliveries from local establishments to then give to students and families.
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