Kiké Hernandez Declares World Baseball Classic 'Above the World Series'

Los Angeles Dodgers star makes bold claim about the international tournament compared to MLB's biggest stage.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Kiké Hernandez, who is currently recovering from elbow surgery and unable to play for Puerto Rico in the ongoing World Baseball Classic, made a bold declaration about the international tournament, stating that 'the classic feels above the World Series'.

Why it matters

Hernandez's comments come as the World Baseball Classic continues to grow in prominence and importance, with some players and fans debating whether star MLB players should participate in the event given the risk of injury ahead of the regular season.

The details

Hernandez, a two-time World Series champion with the Dodgers, is well-versed in the significance of the MLB's biggest stage. However, he believes the World Baseball Classic has surpassed the World Series in terms of prestige and importance. The classic has become a major event in the weeks leading up to the MLB season, drawing both praise and criticism from fans and players.

  • The 2026 World Baseball Classic is currently underway.

The players

Kiké Hernandez

A Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder who is recovering from offseason elbow surgery and unable to play for Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

Edwin Diaz

A newly signed Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher who is currently competing for Team Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic, despite concerns about potential injuries ahead of the MLB regular season.

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What they’re saying

“The classic feels above the World Series”

— Kiké Hernandez (TUDN Sinaoloa)

What’s next

Hernandez will look to return from his elbow surgery and help the Dodgers defend their World Series title when the MLB regular season begins later this month.

The takeaway

Hernandez's bold declaration about the World Baseball Classic highlights the growing significance of the international tournament, as players and fans continue to debate the merits of star MLB players participating in the event ahead of the regular season.