Dodgers and Kiké Hernández agree to 1-year, $4.5 million deal

The veteran utility player returns to the two-time reigning World Series champions

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Los Angeles Dodgers have re-signed Kiké Hernández to a one-year, $4.5 million contract. Hernández, a versatile utility player, has been with the Dodgers five previous times via trade or free agency. He is expected to fill a similar role, providing depth and versatility to the roster, though he is recovering from offseason elbow surgery and may not be ready for Opening Day.

Why it matters

Hernández has become a fan favorite in Los Angeles due to his clutch postseason performances and his versatility in helping the Dodgers win two World Series titles in the last three seasons. His return maintains continuity and depth on a Dodgers roster that is looking to three-peat as champions.

The details

The 34-year-old Hernández underwent offseason surgery on his left (non-throwing) elbow and told a local radio station in December that he didn't anticipate being ready for Opening Day. When healthy, he will likely serve in a utility role, making starts primarily against right-handed pitching. Hernández's regular-season offensive production declined in 2025, as he posted a career-worst .621 OPS in 256 plate appearances, which was partly attributed to playing through the elbow injury.

  • The Dodgers have officially acquired Hernández via trade or free agency five previous times.
  • Hernández told AM 570 in December that he didn't anticipate being ready for Opening Day.

The players

Kiké Hernández

A 34-year-old veteran utility player who has been with the Dodgers five previous times via trade or free agency.

Andrew Friedman

The president of baseball operations for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who said the team would "never shut the door on Kiké" during the offseason.

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What they’re saying

“we'll never shut the door on Kiké”

— Andrew Friedman, President of Baseball Operations, Los Angeles Dodgers

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Hernández's return to the Dodgers maintains continuity and depth on a roster that is looking to three-peat as World Series champions, and his clutch postseason performances have made him a fan favorite in Los Angeles.