Kiké Hernández, a versatile utility player, is back with the Dodgers, signing a one-year deal worth $4.5 million. The popular player took to Instagram to announce his return, expressing excitement with a playful post about a potential three-peat championship. However, this deal comes with a trade-off as Hernández will miss the World Baseball Classic and the start of the 2026 season while he recovers from a torn extensor tender in his left elbow. To accommodate this, the Dodgers placed right-hander Evan Phillips on the 60-day injured list, clearing a spot on the 40-man roster. Hernández's performance in the 2025 World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays was remarkable, with his defensive plays contributing to the team's success. During the series, he played every game, primarily in left field, and his catch and throw to Miguel Rojas at second base in Game 6 sealed the Dodgers' 3-1 victory, forcing a Game 7. The team's success is attributed to Hernández's impact, which is likened to Scottie Pippen's role with the Michael Jordan Chicago Bulls. Additionally, the Dodgers made other roster moves, including extending third baseman Max Muncy's contract and trading Anthony Banda to the Minnesota Twins.
