PRESIDENT OF BASEBALL OPS RAVES ABOUT CHEMISTRY AND POSTSEASON VALUE
LOS ANGELES, CA—The air surrounding the Los Angeles Dodgers’ offseason is thick with the buzz of a potential reunion with fan-favorite utility man, Kiké Hernández. Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman has publicly addressed the rumors, sending fans and media into a frenzy by all but confirming the team’s strong desire to bring the emotional anchor back to Chavez Ravine.
Friedman’s comments highlight the unique value Hernández brings that goes far beyond his regular-season statistics, suggesting the potential reunion is less about filling a specific lineup spot and more about retaining a secret weapon for October.
FRIEDMAN’S DISSECTED HINTS
Speaking at the Winter Meetings, Friedman offered highly suggestive remarks regarding the free-agent utility player, who is currently recovering from elbow surgery:
“We’ll never shut the door on Kiké,” Friedman told reporters. “The value he provides on the field with his versatility, the value he provides in the clubhouse… he’s got to do what’s best, but we’ll see how that plays out.”
Crucially, Friedman went on to rave about Hernández’s leadership during the last championship run: “Off-field this past October may have been one of the most impressive displays of leadership I’ve ever seen. His connecting with different guys… was quite possibly the best leadership I’ve ever seen.”
Every subtle hint from the front office is being dissected like gold, and the message is clear: Hernández is invaluable to the Dodgers’ clubhouse culture and October success.
THE STRATEGIC WAITING GAME
Despite the mutual interest, a formal signing is not expected immediately, largely due to a strategic timing related to his recovery:
- Elbow Surgery: Hernández is currently recovering from surgery on his non-throwing elbow following the 2025 season and is expected to miss the first couple of months of 2026.
- The 60-Day IL Play: Dodgers insiders believe the front office will wait to sign him until closer to Spring Training when they can place him on the 60-day Injured List (IL). This move would allow them to keep a coveted spot on the 40-man roster open during the early season, while Hernández continues to rehab on the payroll.
The reunion buzz is further intensified by the Dodgers already re-signing fellow veteran infielder Miguel Rojas, signaling a concerted effort to maintain the veteran core and championship chemistry that has fueled their recent success.
If this comes together, the Dodgers will secure a proven postseason hero whose infectious energy and ability to play every position on the field (except catcher) will make their bench a formidable, dynamic threat ready to shake up the entire league when the calendar turns to October.
