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Dodgers Announce Roster Move After Kiké Hernandez News
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- Dodgers Announce Roster Move After Kiké Hernandez News
The Los Angeles Dodgers are heading into the 2026 MLB season looking to remain atop the league and secure a third straight World Series title.
A major factor in their success over the past decade has been utility player Kiké Hernandez , who completed his ninth season with the organization in 2025.
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During last year's postseason run, Hernandez made franchise history by appearing in his 87th playoff game as a Dodger, the most in team history. That milestone underscores the value he has provided over the years and why he remains a fan favorite.
Hernandez struggled during the regular season but once again delivered in October, hitting .250 with 16 hits, one home run and seven RBIs across 17 postseason games.
Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Enrique Hernandez (8) during the 2025 MLB season.© Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
As Los Angeles retools its roster for the 2026 season, Hernandez remains unsigned and available as a free agent. While there is interest in a reunion, no agreement has been reached.
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The situation is complicated by a report from The Athletic's Fabian Ardaya , noting that Hernandez may not be ready for opening day after undergoing left elbow surgery this offseason.
With his role uncertain, the Dodgers made a roster move on Friday to provide insurance, claiming utility player Ryan Fitzgerald off waivers from the Minnesota Twins .
Fitzgerald brings versatility and experience to Los Angeles. After years grinding in independent ball and the minors, the 32-year-old finally earned his big-league debut with the Twins in 2025.
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In 24 games, he produced a .196/.302/.457 slash line while covering all four infield positions. His ability to move around the diamond makes him a valuable insurance option for a Dodgers infield anchored by veteran All-Stars Mookie Betts , Max Muncy and Freddie Freeman .
With two minor league option years remaining, Fitzgerald can be stashed if needed, giving Los Angeles a cost-controlled utility player who adds flexibility and depth.
The move also speaks to the uncertainty surrounding Hernandez. A three-time World Series champion with the Dodgers, he previously departed Los Angeles to join the Boston Red Sox from 2021–23 before returning for another run.
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His trademark role has long been providing defensive versatility and postseason impact, but with his free agent status and recovery from elbow surgery, Fitzgerald's arrival gives the Dodgers a safety net at the very position Hernandez has so often filled.
For Los Angeles, Fitzgerald's addition highlights their focus on layering depth behind an aging core, ensuring the roster remains strong enough to chase a third consecutive championship in 2026.
Related: Dodgers' Teoscar Hernandez Sends Message to Phillies Player After Award News
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Jan 9, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
