What to Look for in Spring Training and the Future of Kiké Hernández
With pitchers and catchers reporting on February 11, the Dodgers’ spring training is just around the corner. As the team prepares for the new season, there are several key things to keep an eye on. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most important storylines to follow and discuss the possibility of Kiké Hernández’s return to the team.
The Pitching Depth
The Dodgers have an abundance of pitching talent, and they’re looking to utilize it to their advantage. With the likes of Shohei Ohtani, Tony Gonsolin, and Dustin May returning from injuries, the team is building a strong rotation. Additionally, they’ve added Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell to the mix, providing even more depth. The plan is to manage each pitcher’s workload and employ a six-man rotation, which will also feature Landon Knack, Bobby Miller, and Clayton Kershaw once he’s healthy.
Shohei Ohtani’s Progression
Ohtani is expected to be ready for baseball activities by the start of spring training, but he won’t be ready to pitch by opening day. His Tommy John surgery will keep him sidelined for a while, but the team is optimistic about his recovery. Ohtani’s progression will be closely monitored, and fans will be eager to see him back on the mound.
Freddie Freeman’s Recovery
Freddie Freeman underwent surgery on his ankle and is expected to be ready for the start of the season. He’ll begin agility drills by the end of the week and won’t start running until the team’s first full-squad spring training workout. Freeman is confident that he’ll be a full-go for the team’s opening series against the Chicago Cubs in Tokyo.
Mookie Betts’ Move to Shortstop
Mookie Betts will be playing shortstop this season, and the team is optimistic about his ability to adapt to the position. Betts has expressed his excitement about playing on the dirt and believes it will keep him fresher throughout the game. While there are concerns about his defense, the upside is high enough that the Dodgers are willing to give him a chance.
Kiké Hernández’s Future
Hernández is still a possibility for the Dodgers, despite the team’s lack of 40-man roster depth on the position player side. He checks all the boxes the Dodgers want in a role player, from defensive versatility to a track record for clutch hitting. Hernández has expressed his hope of remaining in Los Angeles, and the team may bring him back if they need a proven safety net.
What to Watch for in Spring Training
There are several key things to keep an eye on during spring training, including:
- Ohtani’s pitching progression
- Betts’ shortstop defense
- Sasaki’s early adaptation to life in the big leagues
- How well May and Gonsolin recovered from their 2023 surgeries
- How well Glasnow bounced back from his season-ending elbow issue
- The battle to be the opening day starter between Glasnow, Sasaki, Yamamoto, and Snell
- How the bottom of the lineup will be shaken up with the additions of Michael Conforto and Hyeseong Kim
Conclusion
The Dodgers’ spring training is just around the corner, and there are several key storylines to follow. From Ohtani’s pitching progression to Hernández’s potential return, there’s plenty to keep an eye on. With the team’s abundance of pitching talent and defensive versatility, they’re well-positioned for another successful season.
FAQs
Q: What is the current state of Kiké Hernández’s contract?
A: Hernández is still a free agent, and the Dodgers have not made any official moves to re-sign him.
Q: What are the Dodgers’ plans for Mookie Betts at shortstop?
A: The team is optimistic about Betts’ ability to adapt to the position and believes it will keep him fresher throughout the game.
Q: When can we expect to see Shohei Ohtani back on the mound?
A: Ohtani is expected to be ready for baseball activities by the start of spring training, but he won’t be ready to pitch by opening day due to his Tommy John surgery.
