Dodgers Bring Back Hernández for Three-Peat Bid
The Los Angeles Dodgers re-signed veteran utility player Kiké Hernández to a one-year contract worth $4.5 million for the 2026 season, the organization announced Thursday. Hernández announced his return via Instagram with the caption, “What else did you expect?!!! 3 in a row has a nice ring to it!” signaling his commitment to pursuing a historic three-peat championship.
The 34-year-old returns for his 10th season with the Dodgers, joining Max Muncy as a cornerstone veteran in the franchise’s roster construction. Muncy signed a contract extension the same day, receiving a guaranteed $7 million for 2027 and a $10 million club option for 2028.
2025 Postseason Standout Despite Regular Season Struggles
While Hernández struggled at the plate during the 2025 regular season, batting .203 with a .255 on-base percentage in 92 games, his postseason performance proved invaluable. The Puerto Rican infielder appeared in all 17 playoff games, recording a .250 batting average with one home run and seven RBIs.
Most notably, Hernández delivered a crucial moment in Game 6 of the 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. With the Dodgers’ season on the line, he made a difficult running catch in left field, then fired the ball to second baseman Miguel Rojas to complete a game-winning double play that forced a decisive Game 7. The Dodgers won that final game to capture their third World Series title since 2020.
Postseason Legacy
Hernández has become one of baseball’s greatest playoff performers. He ranks eighth all-time with 103 career postseason games and became the Dodgers’ franchise leader in playoff appearances with his 87th game during the 2025 postseason. In his playoff career, he maintains an impressive .826 on-base plus slugging percentage with a .272 batting average and .486 slugging percentage.
With the Dodgers, Hernández has recorded 11.1 bWAR with 95 home runs and 320 RBIs across 920 games over nine seasons. He is the fourth player of Puerto Rican descent to reach 100 career postseason appearances, joining Jorge Posada, Bernie Williams, and Yadier Molina.
Recovery from Elbow Surgery
Hernández underwent surgery to repair a torn extensor tendon in his left elbow in November 2025, an injury he played through during the World Series run. He is expected to miss the World Baseball Classic and may begin the 2026 season on the 60-day injured list, potentially delaying his availability by several weeks.
To make roster room for Hernández’s return, the Dodgers transferred right-hander Evan Phillips to the 60-day injured list. Phillips is recovering from Tommy John surgery performed in late May 2025, with an expected recovery window of 12 to 18 months.
The Three-Peat Quest Continues
Hernández’s return represents the Dodgers’ commitment to pursuing an unprecedented three-peat in the modern era. The last team to accomplish the feat was the New York Yankees from 1998 to 2000. His veteran presence and proven postseason clutch gene make him a valuable asset as Los Angeles builds its championship roster for 2026.
