ESPN: Former Dodgers utility player signed by Yankees
Kike Hernandez, a free agent utility player who has been a Dodgers playoff hero, has allegedly drawn interest from the New York Yankees.
Following a hectic winter in which they made several acquisitions, the New York Yankees team appears to be in excellent shape. However, it seems like they might not be finished yet.
According to Mark Sanchez of the NY Post, the Bronx Bombers have made an inquiry for Kike Hernandez, a former utility player for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Hernandez was also contacted by the Yankees last winter.
Hernandez’s tenure with the Dodgers is what made him most famous. In the postseason, he has always been a player who steps it up. On his way to LA defeating the Yankees in the World Series, the Puerto Rican smacked two home runs and batted.294 in the 2024 playoffs. But for the past two years, Kike has had trouble in the regular season, slashing below.230.
Given his versatility, Hernandez would be a fascinating bench option for New York in 2025, though there’s still a chance he returns to Los Angeles. Kike spent the previous season playing almost every position for the Dodgers.
The Yankees brought in a number of key players, despite losing Juan Soto to their crosstown rivals, the New York Mets. They signed veteran Paul Goldschmidt, acquired Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs, traded for electrifying closer Devin Williams, and offered Max Fried a record-breaking contract to join the rotation.
There are plenty of reasons to be happy if you’re a Yankees fan, and while Kike might be a good addition, it’s not necessary. Nolan Arenado is still available for trade, and Sanchez indicated that New York might be interested in other infield free agents like Jose Iglesias and Yoan Moncada. Given the San Diego Padres’ precarious payroll situation, perhaps even one of the game’s best hitters, Luis Arraez, could be a possibility.
