The Los Angeles Dodgers made a swift decision to place Kiké Hernández on the 60-day injured list shortly after re-signing him to a one-year contract ahead of Spring Training. This move comes after Hernández underwent surgery on his left elbow at the start of the offseason, sidelining him for the beginning of the 2026 campaign.
Despite being limited at the start of camp, Hernández took the opportunity to support Team Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. After the pool play, he returned to the Dodgers, prioritizing his rehab process. He explained his decision to return, emphasizing that his rehabilitation was progressing rapidly and he didn't want to detract from the playing time of others on Team Puerto Rico.
“We’re starting to move along really rapidly in terms of my rehab stuff and I don’t really want to, when it comes to having to hit batting practice and all that, I don’t want to take away from the guys that are playing (in the WBC),” Hernández shared. He mentioned that he hadn't yet discussed future plans with Dodgers' President of Baseball Operations, Andrew Friedman, but hinted at the possibility of rejoining Puerto Rico if they continue to advance.
Last season, Hernández played 92 games, posting a .203/.255/.366 slash line with eight doubles, 10 home runs, and 35 RBI. Despite the elbow injury, he featured in all 17 playoff games, hitting .250 with nine runs, one home run, and seven RBI. His elbow issue likely contributed to a dip in his offensive numbers, although it didn't hinder his defensive performance.
The 34-year-old had a standout moment in the World Series, teaming up with Rojas to execute a game-winning double play in Game 6, forcing a decisive Game 7 against the Toronto Blue Jays.
As for his potential return to the World Baseball Classic, Puerto Rico is gearing up for their quarterfinal clash against Italy in Houston. If victorious, Hernández might consider traveling to Miami for the semifinal against either Japan or Venezuela. Should Puerto Rico advance to the final, they would face off against the winner of the Dominican Republic vs. the United States.
While Hernández would only be there in a supportive capacity, his presence could be a significant morale boost for Puerto Rico's squad.