Dodgers: Enrique Hernandez Nearing Activation from IL
Dodgers utility man Kiké Hernandez is reportedly nearing activation, according to Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group.
Hernandez took live batting practice for the first time since he took a strange swing and injured his left hand. He is supposedly set to repeat it tomorrow and will begin a rehab assignment in the coming days with an activation coming shortly thereafter.
#Dodgers Kiké Hernandez said he took live BP today for first time since injuring his left hand. Will do it again tomorrow. Could go on rehab assignment over weekend. “Hopefully” activated during homestand next week
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) August 13, 2019
The Dodgers have been utilizing some form of a Kristopher Negron and Tyler White combination to shield against the lack of versatility that occurs with both Kiké Hernandez and Chris Taylor on the shelf.
Hernandez is in the midst of a subpar season, posting just a 94 wRC+ and 1.3 WAR across 98 games. Normally a solid bet for production against left-handed pitching, Hernandez has not produced against that handedness of pitching this season, mustering just a 96 wRC+. On the other hand, Hernandez has fared even worse against righties with a 93 wRC+.
Even with his bat not being where it needs to be, the 27-year-old utility player’s versatility has been largely missed. Upon his activation, he should fill the role he always has for the Dodgers as their super utility against lefties.
Doing jst fine without him. Keep him in AAA Ball.
Missed??? Not really. So he can play multiple positions, a lot better options available.
Kike’s contributions are more than hitting. He plays great defense and is a positive force in the clubhouse. One thing that makes the Dodgers great is their team chemistry. Kike keeps things loose and light in the dugout and clubhouse.