Dodgers insider gives concerning news about Kike Hernandez’s future

The Los Angeles Dodgers won the World Series last year, and Kike Hernandez played an important part in their success as a utility infielder and leader of their clubhouse. However, the 33-year-old is currently unsigned as a free agent, and a return to the Dodgers is looking increasingly unlikely at this point.

MLB insider Bill Plunkett believes there is very little chance of the Los Angeles Dodgers bringing Kike Hernandez back to the team for the upcoming season. Plunkett said that while the fans admire Hernandez for his contributions to the team, especially in the postseason, the Dodgers will not be willing to sacrifice a roster spot for him after making several additions this off-season.

Bill Plunkett is a Dodgers beat writer for the Orange County Register/Southern California News Group. He gave his thoughts on the prospects of Kike Hernandez heading back to the Dodgers during a guest appearance on the Dodgers Territory podcast this Monday.

"I'm not hearing his name from the Dodgers at all," Plunkett said. "I don't see a need. The roster is pretty full. I don't know who you'd bounce off to make room for Kike. Maybe an extra outfielder like Andy Pages doesn't make the team because of Kike. I get the fan passion for Kike and wanting him back."

"The personality that he brings, the fire that he brings to the clubhouse, I think that would be fine to add. I don't think there's a handshake agreement," he added. "If I'm Kike, I certainly would wait till the very last second to give the Dodgers every chance you can. Where else would you want to play if you're Kike Hernandez?"

Hernandez spent eight seasons in L.A. over two stints with the Dodgers and has won two World Series titles for the team.

"There are still moves they could make" - Bill Plunkett on Dodgers signing players besides Kike Hernandez

Kike Hernandez is a two-time World Series champion with the Dodgers (Image Source: Imagn)

Although Ben Plunkett reckons Kike Hernandez is not going to rejoin his former team, he has not ruled out the Los Angeles Dodgers from making other signings in the free agent market. The senior MLB columnist named outfielder Austin Hays as one of the players that the Dodgers coul add to their to strengthen the lineup against left-handed pitching.

"Are they ever done?" Plunkett asked rhetorically. "They'll grab up a player if it improves them marginally. I think that's why you're seeing Kirby Yates. I don't think they need Kirby Yates. But what the heck, he's available. Why not sign him and upgrade the bullpen a little bit?

"I can see the same thing happen in the outfield group if somebody catches their fancy," he added. "A guy like Austin Hays is still out there. He's got the reputation of being a lefty-killer. So, there are still moves they could make."

Austin Hays played six and a half seasons for the Baltimore Orioles until he was traded to the Philadelphia Phillies at the deadline last year.