Kike Hernandez reveals childhood baseball idols and toughest pitcher to face

Two-time World Series champion and utility man Kike Hernandez is coming off a strong postseason, helping the LA Dodgers win their eighth World Series title in franchise history. Hernandez has been a major leaguer since 2014, when he debuted with the Houston Astros.

Since then, his ability to play nearly every position on the field has made him a valuable asset for multiple teams.

On Tuesday, Kike Hernandez opened up about baseball and more during his appearance on the second episode of "HouseCalls." During the episode, he shared who his baseball idol was growing up.

“Ken Griffey Jr. was my favorite player growing up, of course, 90s kid," Hernandez said (1:50). "I feel like that was most of the people's favorite player."

"I also grew up watching Jorge Posada really closely 'cause Jorge Posada's dad is my godfather. Jorge grew up with my dad, so, of course, it's easy to pay attention when he is on the best team in the game at that time.”

Kike Hernandez can't figure out Phil Mayon at the plate

Among all the future Hall of Fame pitchers Kike Hernandez has faced in his career, the utility man believes Phil Maton has him figured out, giving Maton the nod as the toughest pitcher he's faced.

“Phil Maton, I don't know if he's got me figured out or I can't figure him out... He's just, he's got a, he's got a funky throw and I just, I, I don't see the ball that great against him,” Hernandez said (6:27 onwards).

Hernandez has been troubled by Maton throughout his career. Hernandez has gone 0-for-5, including three strikeouts and one walk in six plate appearances against Maton.

Both Maton and Hernandez are free agents in their 30s. A deal for either is not expected to come soon, as it will take time before the market settles on where top players will land.

Maton played for the Tampa Bay Rays before he was traded to the New York Mets midseason. In 40 outings for the Rays as a reliever, Maton registered a 4.58 ERA with 30 strikeouts and two saves across 35.1 innings pitched.

Meanwhile, in 31 outings for the Mets, he posted a 2.51 ERA with 30 strikeouts across 28.2 innings. The Mets declined his 2025 club option in November.