Kiké Hernández returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers last season after struggling in an everyday role with the Boston Red Sox.
The move West led to improved results and confidence in the utility man, who was in his contract year.
Now a free agent, Hernández has been drawing interest from numerous contenders and the Los Angeles Angels. Some teams are also interested in him as a starting center fielder as they view him as one of the better available defensive options.
While Hernández has plenty of suitors, it appears he would prefer a return to the Dodgers, according to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic:
The Angels continue to show interest in free agent Kiké Hernández, but fear he prefers a return to the Dodgers, according to a source briefed on the team’s discussions.
Hernández also is drawing interest from other clubs, and the Dodgers seem more focused on adding a high-leverage reliever, perhaps Ryan Brasier as a free agent or the Red Sox’s Kenley Jansen in a trade.
While Hernández would seemingly like to return, the Dodgers may not have room for him on their roster. They currently have a set group of 13 position players with other MLB-caliber bats set to start the year in Triple-A.
The Dodgers also appear to be focused on upgrading their bullpen rather than making any changes to their position player group.
However, if Hernández is fully intent on returning to the Dodgers and would take a team-friendly contract, he would provide an upgrade over Manuel Margot and provide the team with additional depth.
Although it still seems unlikely he re-signs with the Dodgers, he is in a unique positon in free agency and the Dodgers may ultimately find value in his clubhouse presence and versatility.
Hernández previously spent six seasons with the Dodgers before returning to the organization last summer. Before the trade, he was hitting just .222/.279/.320 batting line in 86 games.
In 54 games with the Dodgers, Hernández batted.262/.308/.423 with five home runs, 30 RBI and 19 runs scored. Although he was acquired to hit against left-handed pitching, he saw a swing in his splits, instead posting a 113 wRC+ against right-handers.
Kiké Hernández wants to be teammates with Shohei Ohtani
Hernández has also expressed interest in joining Shohei Ohtani, who of course signed with the Dodgers this offseason.
Make sure to follow Dodger Blue on Instagram! It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
