Hernaiz steps up big for Puerto Rico, eyes roster spot upon return

Athletics prospect Darell Hernaiz hits walk-off homer to lift Puerto Rico in World Baseball Classic

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Darell Hernaiz, a 24-year-old infielder in the Oakland Athletics organization, hit a dramatic walk-off home run for Puerto Rico in the 10th inning of their World Baseball Classic game against Panama. Hernaiz was a late addition to Puerto Rico's roster after superstar Francisco Lindor was unavailable, and Athletics manager Mark Kotsay's strong endorsement helped get Hernaiz on the team. Hernaiz's heroics have boosted his chances of making the Athletics' roster out of spring training, as he competes with Max Muncy and Andy Ibañez for the third base job.

Why it matters

Hernaiz's game-winning homer in his hometown of San Juan was a viral moment that showcased his talent on the international stage of the World Baseball Classic. As he battles for a roster spot with the Athletics, his performance could go a long way in solidifying his standing with the organization.

The details

With the game tied 3-3 in the 10th inning, Hernaiz stepped up and crushed a walk-off home run to give Puerto Rico the victory. The celebratory trip around the bases was almost as epic as the homer itself, as Hernaiz 'blacked out' and jumped around with his arms in the air before pulling off a basketball-style jump shot near home plate, where he was mobbed by his teammates.

  • Hernaiz hit the walk-off homer on Saturday night in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
  • Kotsay received a call from Red Sox manager Alex Cora shortly before World Baseball Classic rosters were finalized, seeking intel on Hernaiz as a potential addition to Team Puerto Rico.

The players

Darell Hernaiz

A 24-year-old infielder in the Oakland Athletics organization who hit a dramatic walk-off home run for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic.

Mark Kotsay

The manager of the Oakland Athletics, who provided a strong endorsement of Hernaiz to Red Sox manager Alex Cora, helping Hernaiz get added to Puerto Rico's roster.

Alex Cora

The manager of the Boston Red Sox, who is also involved with Puerto Rico's baseball operations and reached out to Kotsay for intel on Hernaiz as a potential roster addition.

Francisco Lindor

The superstar player who was deemed unavailable to play for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic, leading Cora to search for a replacement.

Max Muncy

An Athletics player who is also vying for the third base job with the team, competing with Hernaiz.

Andy Ibáñez

An Athletics player who is also vying for the third base job with the team, competing with Hernaiz.

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What they’re saying

“I was all in for him to be on the team. I was excited for him to get the opportunity and really felt like he was ready for the moment. … What a moment for Darell.”

— Mark Kotsay, Oakland Athletics Manager (MLB.com)

“It was amazing. Walk-off homer in Puerto Rico in front of his family and the whole country. That was pretty cool. I told him when he left [for the WBC] that he was going to do something special. I'm just super happy for him that he got that moment.”

— Lawrence Butler, Oakland Athletics Outfielder (MLB.com)

What’s next

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The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.