Dodgers News: Kiké Hernandez Ready For Any Role In Return
Monday marked the return of Kiké Hernandez and his many gloves to the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The utility man has been on the disabled list since August 31 after trying to run out a ground ball against the Chicago Cubs. Hernandez’s injury came at the worst time for not only the Dodgers, but for Hernandez, as he was playing just about every day. An injured Howie Kendrick and a struggling Joc Pederson had made for significant playing time for the creator of the Rally Banana.
Hernandez was reinstated ahead of Monday night’s matchup with the San Francisco Giants and ended up 2-for-2 after starting the game on the bench. He came in as a defensive replacement in the ninth inning and added a nice catch on the run in center field in the 10th inning.
Before the game, the 24-year-old said that he is 100 percent and as usual is ready for whatever via Bill Plunkett of the OC Register:
I understand I missed a month,” Hernandez said. “Whatever Donnie needs me to do, I’m ready to do it. I can play every day or come off the bench. Whatever they need.”
Much like he’s done all season, Hernandez will fill in where he’s needed. However, where the young utility man worked at Camelback Ranch could be the indication of where he will play the most:
Kike' Hernandez said he did defensive work at 3B and CF in AZ. An indication where #Dodgers see his usage in postseason.
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) September 29, 2015
Pederson is still struggling at the plate and Justin Turner is getting more days off down the stretch, giving Hernandez a chance to play both spots. Corey Seager and Jimmy Rollins are at shortstop now and Chase Utley and Howie Kendrick are manning second base.
Hernandez also came back at a perfect time to solidify a spot on the postseason roster.