THE “QUIET” MOVE: WHY THE WAIT IS STRATEGIC
LOS ANGELES, CA—The “surprising move” that has reignited speculation isn’t a trade or a signing, but a calculated strategic pause. As the Dodgers finalize megadeals for stars like Edwin Díaz, Andrew Friedman has reportedly put a “hold” on the utility market.
According to insiders, Friedman’s “eyebrow-raising” decision is to wait until Spring Training to finalize a deal with Kiké Hernández.1 This isn’t a sign of hesitation; it’s a masterclass in roster manipulation. By waiting until February, the Dodgers can sign Kiké and immediately place him on the 60-day Injured List (IL), allowing them to retain his leadership and playoff pedigree without burning a precious 40-man roster spot during the winter.2+1
THE MEDICAL REALITY: THE TORN ELBOW REVEAL
The urgency of this “bigger picture” plan became clear after Hernández revealed the true extent of his 2025 struggles. What was thought to be minor “clean-up” surgery on his left elbow was actually an extensor repair—the tendon had been torn completely off the bone.3
- The 2026 Timeline: Kiké is expected to miss at least the first two months of the 2026 season.4
- The “Fireman” Role: Friedman reportedly views Kiké as an “October Specialist.” By delaying the signing, the Dodgers ensure he is fresh for the second half of the season and the pursuit of a historic three-peat.
- The Leadership Factor: During the 2025 Winter Meetings, Friedman was emphatic: “We will never shut the door on Kiké.” He praised Hernández’s 2025 leadership as “the most impressive display I’ve ever seen.”5
BY THE NUMBERS: THE VALUE OF “OCTOBER KIKÉ”
Despite a career-low .203 regular-season average in 2025, Hernández’s value remains untouchable in the Dodgers’ front office due to his post-season transformation.6
| The regular Season (2025) | The Postseason (Career) | The 2026 Projection |
| .203 AVG / 10 HR | 15 Postseason HR (Tied with Babe Ruth) | 1-Year, $7M Deal (Expected) |
| -0.4 WAR | .826 OPS in 103 Playoff Games | Return Date: June 2026 |
| Defensive Versatility | Played 7 positions in 2025. | Primary RH-Bench Weapon |
THE CLUBHOUSE REACTION: “F AROUND AND FIND OUT”
Kiké himself isn’t playing coy about his future. Following the Dodgers’ $69M signing of Edwin Díaz, Hernández (technically a free agent) posted a viral Instagram story with the caption: “F AROUND AND FIND OUT!!!” Analysts say this “telegraphing” of allegiance shows that a deal with the Dodgers is essentially a “handshake agreement” waiting for the right administrative window to open.7
“It’s not a question of ‘if,’ but ‘when,'” one Dodgers insider noted. “Friedman is planning for October 2026 in December 2025. Kiké is the heartbeat of that locker room. You don’t trade your heart when you’re chasing a dynasty.”
