The Dodgers are heading into an offseason unlike any other in recent memory. Back-to-back World Series titles have them chasing a rare three-peat, and while the championship core remains largely intact, the front office-led by Andrew Friedman-faces a delicate balancing act: stay loyal to the veterans who helped deliver titles, or make room for a younger, more athletic roster that can sustain success into the future.
Max Muncy is already locked in for another season, but the futures of other key veterans are less certain. Among them, two names stand out as particularly intriguing decisions: Miguel Rojas and Kiké Hernández.
Both have been valuable in different ways, both bring experience and leadership, and both face stiff competition from emerging young talent. But it’s unlikely both return.
So who makes more sense to keep?
Let’s break it down.
The Kiké Hernández Factor
If postseason pedigree counts for anything-and in Los Angeles, it absolutely does-then Kiké Hernández has a strong case to stick around. Only José Altuve has logged more October games among active players, and Hernández has made a habit of showing up when the lights are brightest. His .826 career postseason OPS tells part of the story, but the timely hits, defensive gems, and emotional spark he provides paint the full picture.
“Kiktober” isn’t just a nickname-it’s a phenomenon.
That said, regular season production has been a different story. In 2025, Hernández hit just .203 with 10 home runs and a rough .255 on-base percentage. The inconsistency is hard to ignore, especially for a 34-year-old whose best offensive days may be behind him.
Still, his defensive versatility remains a major asset. He can play every position except catcher and pitcher, and he does so with competence and confidence.
In a clubhouse filled with stars, Hernández is the connective tissue-the guy who keeps things loose, who bridges cultures, who’s trusted by teammates and coaches alike. That kind of presence doesn’t show up in the box score, but it matters.
The Miguel Rojas Case
Now let’s talk about Miguel Rojas, who brings a different kind of value. He’s not flashy, but he’s steady-an elite defender with soft hands, quick feet, and the kind of baseball IQ that makes him a coach-in-waiting.
Rojas has long been one of the most respected voices in the clubhouse, often seen rallying teammates or offering in-game guidance. He’s the type of veteran who leads by example and elevates those around him.
Rojas has already made it clear: he wants to play one more season before hanging up the cleats. He won’t cost much, and he’s shown he can still contribute on both sides of the ball. His performance in the 2025 World Series was a reminder that he’s not just a mentor-he can still make winning plays.
But at 37, Rojas is nearing the end. And with younger options knocking on the door, the Dodgers have to ask themselves whether there’s enough room to carry a veteran whose primary value lies in leadership and defense.
Enter the Youth Movement
The real X-factor in this decision? The kids.
Hyeseong Kim and Alex Freeland are both poised to make a push for bigger roles in 2026. Kim, 26, brings speed, defensive flexibility, and a high motor.
His bat still needs some polishing, but the tools are there. Freeland, 24, is one of the organization’s more intriguing prospects.
He’s athletic, plays multiple positions, and showed flashes in his brief MLB stint. More importantly, both are left-handed hitters-something the Dodgers’ bench lacked in the 2025 postseason.
This is where the conversation shifts. As much as the Dodgers value experience, they also know the importance of getting younger and more athletic.
Kim and Freeland offer just that. They may not be proven postseason performers yet, but neither was Hernández before 2017.
The ceiling for both is high, and the time to start developing that next wave is now.
What It All Comes Down To
So who gets the nod?
If the Dodgers are prioritizing versatility, postseason experience, and clubhouse chemistry, Kiké Hernández checks every box. He can play both infield and outfield.
He’s a proven October performer. And he’s still young enough-relatively speaking-to contribute at a high level in a utility role.
With Tommy Edman expected to return healthy, and with Kim and Freeland providing left-handed depth, the Dodgers may have more flexibility in the infield. That could open up a spot for Hernández to slide into the outfield mix, where his glove and instincts still play.
As for Rojas, the respect is undeniable. He’s been a model teammate, a defensive anchor, and a quiet leader.
But the Dodgers have moved on from beloved veterans before-Justin Turner, Austin Barnes, Chris Taylor-all with longer track records. Rojas may deserve a farewell tour, but the club may not have the roster space to give him one.
If this is the end of the road for Rojas, there’s no better way to go out: a World Series champion, a mentor to the next generation, and a key part of one of the most dominant runs in franchise history.
The Dodgers have tough choices ahead, but that’s what happens when you’re building a dynasty.
