Kiké Hernández Diagnosed With "Significant" Oblique Tear
MLB Trade Rumors • • sports
Key Points:
- Dodgers utilityman Kiké Hernández suffered a significant tear in his left oblique, leading to another extended absence after just returning from elbow surgery rehab earlier this week.
- Infielder Alex Freeland has been recalled from Triple-A Oklahoma City to fill Hernández’s roster spot, with manager Dave Roberts indicating Freeland will get most of the second base playing time.
- Hernández had started the last two games at third base and was off to a strong start offensively, but his recent injury and prior performance (.232/.282/.392 since 2023 trade) suggest limited offensive impact going forward.
- The Dodgers recently designated Santiago Espinal for assignment to make room for Hernández’s return, complicating infield depth as Espinal may be claimed or become a free agent if he clears waivers.
- With limited infield depth remaining on the 40-man roster, the Dodgers face challenges maintaining lineup stability, especially as starting second baseman Hyeseong Kim has struggled offensively this month.