Los Angeles Dodgers free agent Kike Hernandez's future is in doubt for the first time in a while, and a departure could be on the cards.
Hernandez is now 35 and entering the last few years of his career before retirement. While he is older now, Hernandez still brings an unrivaled energy in the clubhouse.
However, his play has declined during the regular season, while his postseason moments have become rarer.
Oct 15, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Enrique Hernandez (8) reacts after losing the NLCS for the 2026 MLB Playoffs Milwaukee Brewers at Uniqlo Field at Dodger Stadium . Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
With the team's core getting older and some of that age showing in the NLCS, Dodgers Nation's Doug McKain said the time to move on may have arrived.
"This is the time to move on. I know no one wants to hear that," McKain said on Dodgers Dougout Live. "I know it's the most unpopular opinion, and look, his energy is great. Everything's awesome about it, but look, all good things come to an end.
"Kike said himself, after he hit the home run against Chris Sale, that this team is not athletic. They're not going to be running the bases. Defense has taken a hit.
"He would; he got injured in the regular season. Look, man, it's the toughest thing to do, bro. It really is. But I think this is Toy Story 3. This is where Andy goes into his room and gives Bonnie, Woody, and the rest of the toys."
Over the last two years, Hernandez has hit .208/.259/.376 with a 75 OPS+ in the regular season. Things are worse in the postseason, when he has hit just .218 with two home runs and nine RBIs over 23 games.
As a utility player, Hernandez can still play all over the field, both in the infield and outfield.
Oct 11, 2023; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Enrique Hernandez against the Arizona Diamondbacks during game three of the NLDS for the 2023 MLB playoffs at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports Credit: USA TODAY Sports via Reuters Connect (Reuters)
He also battled a ton of injuries over the last two years, and if he can stay healthy, he could deliver a better offensive season.
With a steady stream of platoon at-bats, Hernandez could benefit from consistent exposure on the field, so he wouldn't have to ramp up as suddenly.
More than anything, Hernandez can lead the locker room and help the team as a player willing to do whatever it takes to win.
For both Hernandez and the Dodgers, it may be worth giving it one more go, especially since veteran leader Miguel Rojas is departing.
If the team really wants to retool and get younger, a fresh start for both sides could be the path.
