MLB rumors: Angels’ interest in Kike Hernandez could be stymied by the Dodgers
The Angels have expressed interest in Kike Hernandez, as have the Dodgers.
The Los Angeles Angels have already lost Shohei Ohtani to the Los Angeles Dodgers. But as the Angels try to pick up the pieces, the Dodgers may once again win out in the Los Angeles free agency battle.
Hernandez began the 2023 season with the Boston Red Sox, playing in 86 games. He spent the season with the Dodgers, hitting.237 with 11 homers, 61 RBI, and four stolen bases. Hernandez appeared to find a spark in LA, hitting.262 with five home runs and 30 RBI. Despite playing 54 games with the Dodgers, he essentially maintained his performance from Boston.
Los Angeles conplete the signing of Kike Hernandez
But the 2023 season was not Hernandez’s first time in Los Angeles. He won the 2020 World Series with the squad and has played in 702 games overall. Hernandez has spent seven of his ten years in MLB with the Dodgers, so it’s evident he’s at ease with the team.
However, the Angels will continue to seek him. In addition to his boxing skills, Hernandez is a versatile defender who can cover any position on the diamond. This would allow Los Angeles to select how to deploy Hernandez, giving them greater flexibility in their lineup.
That is, assuming Kike Hernandez contracts with the Angels. While he may not be the most talked-about free agent, the utility man is attracting plenty of attention, particularly from the Dodgers. With a potential return to his former team on the table, the Angels may lose out yet again, this time in the Hernandez sweepstakes.
