Kiké Hernández Expresses Desire to Remain with Dodgers After Playoff Exit
The veteran infielder faces an uncertain future as a free agent following the Los Angeles Dodgers' elimination from the National League Championship Series.
Kiké Hernández, a well-known figure and playoff standout for the Los Angeles Dodgers, has voiced his hope to continue his career with the team. His future with the organization is uncertain as he enters free agency following the Dodgers' conclusion of their season after Game 4 of the National League Championship Series.
"Every time I look at my career, I go back to this place. I’ve been here the longest. I hope I get back. I feel like I have a lot left. I thought it was gonna be a big year for me on the personal side," Hernández stated. "I would love to be back. I would love to have one more try to win another one. I don’t really know what’s gonna happen."
Hernández is among several Dodgers players whose contracts are expiring as the team looks to regroup after failing to achieve a three-peat championship. The Dodgers had brought back multiple veteran players during the previous offseason to strengthen their roster.
Both infielder Miguel Rojas and Hernández signed one-year deals for the 2026 season. Rojas announced his retirement on Thursday. At 35 years old, Hernández indicated his intention to continue playing, although his next team remains undecided.
President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman and general manager Brandon Gomes face the challenge of rejuvenating the team's youth while retaining key players. Hernández has been a part of all three of the Dodgers’ World Series championships during his six years with the team.
The Dodgers' recent playoff elimination has sparked discussions about the potential end of their sustained period of success. However, strategic moves by the front office could ensure the team remains competitive in the upcoming seasons.
