Kiké Hernández Returns to the Los Angeles Dodgers on a One-Year Deal
The return of Kiké Hernández to the Los Angeles Dodgers on a one-year contract is a move that has both excited fans and bolstered the team’s roster heading into the new season. Hernández, a player who has been a key figure in the Dodgers’ recent successes, is returning to the organization with the goal of helping lead the team to further victories. Known for his versatility, strong postseason performances, and energetic personality, Hernández’s return marks an important step for the Dodgers as they continue to build a competitive and deep roster. In this comprehensive breakdown, we’ll look into his journey back to Los Angeles, his performance with the team, and the impact he will have going forward.
A Familiar Face in a Familiar Place
For Kiké Hernández, his return to the Dodgers is more than just a reunion with a team—it’s a homecoming. Having originally joined the Dodgers in 2015 as a versatile utility player, Hernández quickly became known for his infectious personality and his ability to contribute across multiple positions. Over the years, he built a strong connection with both the team and the fanbase, making his return in 2025 even more meaningful. Hernández was instrumental in the Dodgers’ success during the team’s championship runs, most notably contributing during their 2020 World Series victory.
In addition to his success on the field, Hernández’s energetic and charismatic persona made him a fan favorite. His defense at second base, shortstop, and the outfield, along with his ability to deliver in clutch moments, made him an invaluable asset to the Dodgers’ lineup. His postseason heroics, his leadership, and his relentless work ethic left an indelible mark on the franchise. The Dodgers’ decision to bring Hernández back to the team for the 2025 season further emphasizes his importance to the organization.
The Deal: What We Know
Kiké Hernández signed a one-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the 2025 season, although financial details of the contract have not yet been disclosed. This move comes after a period of uncertainty about his future, following a season in which he played for the Boston Red Sox. In the 2024 season, Hernández played 137 games for the Red Sox, batting .229 with 14 home runs, 60 RBIs, and a .710 OPS. While his regular-season performance was relatively modest, he stepped up when it mattered most—during the playoffs. His experience and ability to deliver in high-pressure situations made him a highly attractive option for the Dodgers, who were eager to add depth and versatility to their roster.
Hernández’s return to the Dodgers is a testament to both his desire to win and his familiarity with the organization. With the team in need of depth at several positions, including second base and center field, bringing back a player who can capably play multiple positions is a strategic move that makes sense for the Dodgers as they look to continue their postseason dominance. Furthermore, Hernández has expressed his excitement about rejoining the team, as evidenced by a TikTok video in which he celebrated the news of his return. His positive energy and leadership will be an important addition to a Dodgers clubhouse that is already stacked with talent.
Kiké Hernández’s Career with the Dodgers: A Retrospective
Before his departure to the Boston Red Sox in 2021, Hernández spent the bulk of his career with the Dodgers, building a reputation as one of the most dynamic and reliable players on the team. After being acquired in a trade with the Miami Marlins, Hernández immediately made his mark as a utility player capable of filling in across the diamond, from second base to the outfield. His versatility became one of his most valuable assets, as Dodgers manager Dave Roberts could count on him to step in wherever needed, providing the team with both depth and reliability.
Throughout his career with the Dodgers, Hernández established himself as a clutch performer, especially during postseason play. His most memorable moment came during the 2020 World Series, where his bat came alive at a time when the Dodgers needed it most. His performance during the playoffs in 2020 helped propel the Dodgers to their first World Series title in 32 years, a long-awaited victory for both the team and the city of Los Angeles. Over the course of the 2020 postseason, he hit .250 with three home runs and 9 RBIs, delivering several crucial hits to help the Dodgers secure their spot as the best team in baseball.
Aside from his on-field accomplishments, Hernández was known for his leadership in the clubhouse. His personality was infectious, and he quickly became a beloved figure among teammates and fans alike. His energy and passion for the game were infectious, and his work ethic served as an example for younger players on the team.
Performance with the Boston Red Sox: A Mixed Bag
Following his departure from the Dodgers in 2021, Kiké Hernández spent two seasons with the Boston Red Sox, where he played a key role in the team’s outfield and infield rotation. Though his time with the Red Sox was marked by some high points, it was also filled with challenges. In 2022, Hernández was given the opportunity to be an everyday starter for the first time in his career, playing as both a center fielder and a second baseman. While he was able to show flashes of brilliance, he also struggled with consistency, batting .220 with 12 home runs and 59 RBIs.
However, in 2023, Hernández’s performance improved significantly as he adapted to the role. His batting average rose to .260, and he contributed a solid 15 home runs and 68 RBIs. While his defense remained strong, particularly in the outfield, Hernández’s offensive consistency was a focal point for the Red Sox as they navigated a rebuilding season. Despite the ups and downs, he remained one of the more reliable players on the team, and his leadership qualities were apparent.
In the 2024 season, Hernández faced additional challenges, as he struggled to find his rhythm offensively. While he played well defensively, his batting average dipped to .229, and his power numbers were slightly lower than previous years. Despite the struggles, Hernández showed resilience and worked hard to improve, and his ability to deliver in clutch situations during the postseason—where his performance rose—earned him the respect of his teammates and the admiration of his fans.
While his regular season performance may have left something to be desired, his experience and contributions to the Red Sox’s playoff push were important. This is exactly why the Dodgers were interested in bringing him back into the fold.
Hernández’s Role with the Dodgers in 2025
The Los Angeles Dodgers have made it clear that they are not resting on their laurels after their 2020 World Series title. The team has made several strategic moves to bolster its roster and position itself for a successful run in 2025. With Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Clayton Kershaw continuing to lead the team, the addition of a versatile player like Hernández fills an important gap.
Hernández’s role with the team will likely be as a utility player, a position he has excelled in throughout his career. While he could see time at second base, where he has previously played, he will also serve as a viable option in the outfield, particularly in center field, where the Dodgers have occasionally looked for more stability. His ability to move around the diamond gives manager Dave Roberts flexibility in his lineup, allowing him to rest other players without losing significant production.
As the season progresses, it is likely that Hernández will be counted on to contribute both offensively and defensively in crucial moments. His postseason experience, combined with his reputation for performing when the stakes are high, makes him an ideal candidate for big games, particularly in the latter half of the season when the Dodgers will be looking to secure a playoff spot.
A Strong Leadership Presence in the Dugout
Off the field, Hernández’s return to the Dodgers will bring a much-needed boost to the team’s leadership. His connection with fans and teammates will likely have a positive effect on the team’s morale and energy. Hernández has a proven track record of keeping the locker room loose and focused, and his passion for the game is likely to rub off on younger players like Miguel Vargas and James Outman, who are looking to establish themselves as key contributors to the Dodgers’ future success.
It is also worth noting that Hernández’s leadership extends beyond just his words—his actions on the field speak volumes. He is known for his intense work ethic and determination, and his ability to adapt and improve despite adversity is something that will resonate with his teammates.
The Future of Kiké Hernández and the Dodgers
Looking ahead, the return of Kiké Hernández gives the Los Angeles Dodgers a solid option to further solidify their championship aspirations. With an offense that is consistently one of the most potent in the league, the Dodgers will need players who can contribute in a variety of ways, especially as they face tough competition in the NL West and throughout the league. Hernández’s bat, versatility, and leadership will be instrumental in helping the team maintain its dominance.
While the Dodgers’ ultimate goal remains to win another World Series, Kiké Hernández’s presence adds an extra layer of depth to a team that is already stacked with talent. His contributions may not always come in the form of gaudy statistics, but his impact on the clubhouse and his ability to step up in key moments will make him an invaluable asset throughout the season.