Kiké Hernández returned from a nearly two-month absence caused by elbow issues and immediately contributed offensively in a three-game sweep of Cincinnati. Multiple injections addressed his ailing elbow and positioned the 34-year-old for the stretch run. Hernández's versatility allows him to play multiple infield and outfield positions, and coaching staff note his obsessive preparation and consistent routines. He is likely to start against left-handed pitching, and injuries to Max Muncy, Tommy Edman, Alex Call and Hyeseong Kim increase the probability that he will see near-daily playing time while the Dodgers protect a slim NL West lead.
With the postseason right around the corner, it's not overly surprising to see Hernandez hit the ground running ahead of his favorite time of the year. Coming back healthy is a major boon for the Dodgers as they cling to a two-game lead in the NL West over the rival San Diego Padres.
When speaking with third base coach Dino Ebel, he broke down what makes Hernandez such a special player - and ultimately why he's so valuable to the Dodgers. "Kiké, he loves baseball. He's obsessed with baseball. He learns every day, the same routine in the infield and the outfield. He plays multiple positions, but I think deep down inside, he is a true - in today's game - a true baseball player."
We've already seen the impact Hernandez has made since coming back from the IL. After receiving multiple injections into an ailing elbow, the 34-year-old is ready for the stretch run. One can expect Hernandez to be in the lineup versus left-handed pitching. With injuries to Max Muncy, Tommy Edman, Alex Call, and Hyeseong Kim, there's also a high likelihood he'll be playing virtually on an everyday basis
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