GLENDALE, Ariz. — On Tuesday, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Kiké Hernández reached an agreement on a one-year deal valued at $6.5 million, ensuring that the versatile player remains with the reigning World Series champions.
At 33 years old, Hernández is set to embark on his third consecutive season with the Dodgers, marking his ninth overall in Major League Baseball. During the previous season, he recorded a batting average of .229, compiling 12 home runs and 42 runs batted in across 126 games. Hernández had a salary of $4 million last year and showed his prowess in the postseason as well, hitting .294 with two home runs and six RBIs over 14 playoff games. Notably, he delivered a critical tiebreaking solo home run off Yu Darvish of the San Diego Padres, propelling the Dodgers to an essential lead in the second inning of the decisive Game 5 of the NL Division Series.
Primarily utilized as a third baseman, Hernández showcased his flexibility by playing all four infield positions, as well as left and center field. He even made four appearances on the mound during lopsided games.
Hernández’s career with the Dodgers has been notable, especially during his initial stint from 2015 to 2020, after which he played for the Boston Red Sox before being reacquired by Los Angeles in a trade in July 2023. Throughout his time with the Dodgers, he has accumulated 85 homers and 285 RBIs over 828 games, with his overall career batting average standing at .238, including 120 home runs and 435 RBIs across 11 seasons, which also featured tenures with the Houston Astros and Miami Marlins in 2014.
This offseason, the Dodgers have made significant financial commitments, totaling $458.5 million across nine players. Among these contracts, utility player Tommy Edman secured a five-year deal worth $74 million, while outfielder Teoscar Hernández inked a three-year, $66 million agreement. Right-handed pitcher Blake Treinen will also be with the team for $22 million over the next two years.
Additionally, prized Japanese pitching prospect Roki Sasaki signed a minor league contract that includes a $6.5 million signing bonus, while left-hander Blake Snell agreed to a five-year contract valued at $182 million. Noteworthy additions to the roster include relief pitcher Tanner Scott for $72 million over four years, outfielder Michael Conforto for a single-season deal worth $17 million, and second baseman Hyeseong Kim for three years at $12.5 million.
To address injury concerns, right-hander Gavin Stone has been placed on the 60-day injured list as he continues his recovery from shoulder surgery that took place on October 9, meaning he is expected to miss the upcoming season.
