Dodgers News: Kiké Hernandez Comments On Starting Role
As of now, Kiké Hernandez is your 2019 starting second baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Still, that has not always been the case for Hernandez who has fought for his spot throughout his big league career.
Ironically, the man he ‘beat out’ for the starting position is Chris Taylor. Taylor is a player who has had to play all over the diamond to provide value and fight his way into the everyday lineup. Now, Hernandez has earned the opportunity he’s waited his entire career for.
Recently, he spoke with J.P. Hoornstra of the OC Register about what this means to him.
Infield starting roles have been solidified with Robert's selection as to who will be the primary second baseman.https://t.co/sdd2bMmf5R
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) March 23, 2019
Hernandez sees this as an opportunity to focus – rather than not knowing where he will play each night.
“It allows me to show my full potential because I’m just working at one spot,” Hernandez said. “I can just focus on being as good as I can be at only one position instead of trying to get really good at six, seven different spots.
“In another way, it gives me a little bit more comfort at the plate hitting, not having to move around and focus on those two parts that much. I’m excited and happy. I’m also going to try to stay here for a few more years.”
Furthermore, it’s interesting that Hernandez sees this as a chance to prolong his stay in Los Angeles. That probably would be fine with a large section of the fan base. However, that will be determined by his performance and the people who sign his check. Still, it’s easy to see why a veteran like Hernandez would be thrilled at this breakthrough.
A year ago, he made the case for why he should play more against right-handed pitching. Then in 2018, he went out and performed admirably by homering 21 times and posting an OPS of .806 while playing all over the diamond. Now it’s time to find out what everyday Kiké has to offer.
Do you have full trust in Hernandez as the starting second baseman? Why or why not? Let us know in the comments section!
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I like the idea of a primary 2B and happy to see Kike get the opportunity. Taylor has basically blown his chance by continuing to strikeout at a far too high rate. As far as holding the position for a few years, I expect he will be challenged by Gavin Lux, if not in 2020 then certainly by 2021.
Spot on GLP!
Excellent glove, power, great teammate. I hope he can keep his average up.
Kiké earned this position. He has worked well at bat that is needed to keep wins adding up in the season. Taylor must be ready when his number is called and do what is best for the team. Season is long, things can change.