The rumor is TRUE and gaining momentum: The Los Angeles Dodgers and veteran utility man Enrique “Kiké” Hernández are reportedly open to a reunion, signaling a potential comeback plot twist that fans and insiders thought was over.
This quiet interest is fueled by both emotional nostalgia and a critical strategic need for the back-to-back World Series champions.
The Strategic Intrigue: Versatility and Vibe
Despite Hernández, 34, coming off a challenging season ($\text{.203}$ batting average, dealing with an elbow injury) the Dodgers desperately need what he provides:
- Elite Versatility: Kiké’s ability to handle second base, third base, and all three outfield spots (he even pitched four times in 2024) is priceless. His multi-position coverage fills critical soft spots on the roster, allowing manager Dave Roberts immense defensive flexibility.
- Postseason DNA: Hernández is a proven playoff performer with three World Series rings as a Dodger. He was in left field for the season-saving catch in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series and his energy is infectious. Insiders recognize the “clubhouse glue” and “vibe” he brings, which is hard to quantify but essential for a dynasty aiming for a three-peat.
- Low Cost, High Reward: His potential commitment would likely be similar to the one-year, $\text{\$6.5}$ million deal he signed last offseason, which is a small financial dent for a team with a massive payroll, making it a low-risk, high-reward move.
The Unfinished Business
Hernández himself has been vocal about his desire to return, saying he was put on this planet to “make people laugh and play October baseball.”
The Current Setback: The major hurdle is his recovery from elbow surgery on his non-throwing arm. Hernández expects to miss all of Spring Training and potentially the first month or two of the 2026 season.
The Dodgers, however, showed their continued commitment to clubhouse favorites by re-signing infielder Miguel Rojas, suggesting they may be willing to wait for Hernández’s recovery to bring back a player who embodies the “Dodger way” of winning.
