Kiké Hernandez Undergoes Elbow Surgery
Introduction to the Injury
Utilityman Kiké Hernandez announced that he had left elbow surgery and won’t be available to play in the World Baseball Classic next season.
Hernandez is currently an unsigned free agent. It’s unclear how the surgery will affect his availability for the 2026 season. He played for Team Puerto Rico in the 2017 and 2023 WBC.
Career Highlights and Injury Impact
The 34-year-old Hernandez has been part of the Dodgers’ World Series championship teams in 2020, 2024 and 2025. This past season, he had a poor season, batting just .203 during the regular season, in part because he played with an injured elbow most of the season.
The Original Injury
The original injury occurred on a play at the plate against the Cleveland Guardians on May 28. Hernandez scored from third base on a wild pitch but pitcher Tim Herrin tumbled onto his left arm as he tried to make a play on Hernandez.
Diagnosis and Treatment
According to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, it wasn’t until weeks later that Hernandez admitted the elbow had been bothering him and he went on the injured list in July. After multiple cortisone injections and platelet-rich plasma treatments, Hernandez was able to return in late August. In his Instagram post following surgery, Hernandez indicated he tore “an extension muscle” in his elbow and continuing to play with the injury led to it tearing away from the bone.
Postseason Performance
The fan favorite once again played a critical role in the postseason, turning a game-ending double play from left field in Game 6 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. Hernandez became the all-time leader in postseason games played (92) with the Dodgers this year.
Conclusion
Kiké Hernandez’s decision to undergo elbow surgery will keep him out of the World Baseball Classic next season. As an unsigned free agent, the impact of this surgery on his future in baseball, particularly his availability for the 2026 season, remains uncertain. Despite the challenges he faced with his injury, Hernandez demonstrated his dedication and importance to the team, especially in postseason games.
FAQs
- Q: Why did Kiké Hernandez undergo elbow surgery?
A: Hernandez underwent surgery due to an injury that occurred during a play at the plate against the Cleveland Guardians on May 28, which led to him tearing an extension muscle in his elbow. - Q: Will Kiké Hernandez play in the World Baseball Classic next season?
A: No, Hernandez announced that he won’t be available to play in the World Baseball Classic next season due to his recent elbow surgery. - Q: What is Kiké Hernandez’s current status as a player?
A: Hernandez is currently an unsigned free agent, and it’s unclear how the surgery will affect his availability for the 2026 season.
