LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles Dodgers fan-favorite Kiké Hernández has revealed that he played through the entire 2025 season and the successful World Series run with a debilitating elbow injury, undergoing major surgery that will sideline him until at least May 2026 and force him to miss the World Baseball Classic (WBC).
The utility star’s remarkable toughness, which saw him contribute across nearly every position—even briefly pitching—while battling significant pain, has earned him immense praise from the organization and fans alike.
The Extent of the Injury
Hernández, who is now a free agent, shared details of the procedure on Adam Ottavino’s “Baseball & Coffee” podcast, revealing the injury was more severe than initially thought:
- Injury: The issue, which began as elbow inflammation after a play in May, was diagnosed as a torn extensor tendon in his left elbow, and in-season tests also showed a small bone fracture.
- Surgery: Doctors initially expected a less intensive procedure, but upon operating, found the tendon was “torn that thing completely off the bone.” The surgery was a full extensor repair.
- The Sacrifice: Hernández admitted he played through the pain until the very end, noting, “I couldn’t even hold the bat anymore” late in the season. He delayed the surgery until after the World Series to remain with the team.
Free Agency Impact and Recovery Timeline
The surgery and recovery timeline create a complex situation as Hernández enters free agency:
| Detail | Status | Impact on Free Agency |
| Injury | Left Elbow (Torn Extensor Tendon) | Lowers his market value and may prevent him from securing a long-term deal immediately. |
| Recovery Timeline | Expected return: May 2026 | He will miss all of Spring Training and the first month or two of the 2026 season. |
| WBC Status | WITHDRAWN | Hernández confirmed he will miss the 2026 World Baseball Classic, calling it a “hard pill to swallow” as he planned to represent Puerto Rico. |
Despite his regular-season struggles at the plate (slashing .203/.255/.366), Hernández’s value as a clutch postseason hero and a versatile Gold Glove-level defender remains undeniable. Manager Dave Roberts trusted him to start every game in left field during the World Series, a testament to the belief in his grit and ability to deliver when it mattered most.
The Dodgers, who have consistently prioritized veteran leadership and versatility, are considered the most likely candidate to re-sign Hernández on a team-friendly, incentive-laden deal, allowing him to rehab with the club and return in May to boost their championship run.
