Enrique Hernández’s first stint with the Dodgers was nothing short of spectacular. Beloved by fans, he played a pivotal role in helping the team secure a World Series title in 2020. Hoping to recapture that magic, the Dodgers brought him back for a second stint in 2023 despite his struggles during his time away from the team. Their gamble was based on the belief that reuniting Hernández with familiar coaches and teammates could help him rediscover his form.
Hernández closed out the 2023 season in Los Angeles with a .262/.308/.423 slash line, five home runs, and 54 games under his belt. Impressed with his contributions, the Dodgers signed him to a one-year, $4 million deal in February. This time, Hernández delivered when it mattered most, hitting .294/.357/.451 with two home runs, six RBIs, and 11 runs scored in 14 postseason games. His efforts helped the Dodgers secure their second World Series title in four years.
Despite his success, Hernández’s future with the Dodgers is uncertain. As a free agent, he expressed a strong desire to return to Los Angeles. “I really, really hope that I’m back next year so we can run it back,” he said. However, the Dodgers recently signed Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim to a three-year deal, further crowding their roster with three utility players. This move casts doubt on whether Hernández will rejoin the team. Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Phillies have emerged as a potential suitor.
The Phillies, looking to address roster gaps, could benefit from Hernández’s versatility and defensive reliability. According to Eno Saris of The Athletic MLB, Hernández “checks a lot of boxes” for a team aiming to strengthen its bench depth and postseason aspirations. The Puerto Rican utility player can cover multiple positions, including second base, shortstop, and the outfield, making him a valuable asset for manager Rob Thomson. His flexibility would allow the Phillies to manage players like Nick Castellanos without compromising defensive stability.
Hernández showcased this versatility with the Dodgers last year, stepping in for injured players like Max Muncy and Freddie Freeman and even pitching during a bullpen emergency. This adaptability made him a fan favorite in Los Angeles. Despite his openness about wanting to stay with the Dodgers, the team has yet to offer him a deal.
As Hernández faces an uncertain offseason, he remains hopeful about his future. In a candid interview, he admitted, “Main priority for me would probably be coming back [to the Dodgers].” However, MLB Network’s Jon Morosi noted the Dodgers’ crowded roster complicates matters, with players like Chris Taylor, Tommy Edman, and Gavin Lux already in the mix. Unless a trade clears space, Hernández might find better opportunities elsewhere.
Adding to the intrigue, Hernández recently updated his Instagram profile picture to a question mark, sparking speculation among fans. While his next destination remains unclear, one thing is certain: Enrique Hernández’s versatility and postseason pedigree will make him a sought-after player this offseason.
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