Kiké Hernández is now a free agent following the end of the Dodgers’ season.
The beloved player and postseason star discussed his future with the team after the Dodgers’ Game 4 loss in the National League Championship Series on Thursday night.
“Every time I reflect on my career, I think about this place. I’ve spent the most time here, and I really hope to come back. I feel like I still have a lot to offer. I was expecting a big year for myself,” Hernández shared.
“I’d love to return. It would be fantastic to have another chance at winning a title. But honestly, I’m not sure what lies ahead.”
Hernández is among several Dodgers players whose futures are uncertain after the team fell short of achieving a three-peat. Last offseason, the Dodgers focused on bolstering their roster with experienced players.
Brought back on one-year contracts for the 2026 season were Hernández and Miguel Rojas, who announced his retirement on Thursday. At 35, Hernández is keen to continue his playing career.
Whether he will do so with the Dodgers is yet to be seen.
Andrew Friedman, the president of baseball operations, along with general manager Brandon Gomes, will need to strategize on how to balance aging veterans with younger talent. Hernández has played a role in all three of the Dodgers’ World Series championships over the past six years.
There’s already speculation about the Dodgers’ dynasty and questions about whether the Brewers have put an end to their golden era. Still, a shrewd front office move could keep the team in a competitive position.
