The New York Yankees have done the majority of their heavy lifting in free agency, but there could be another move or two.
The Yankees may use another infielder, as they still have a hole at third base. So, MLB analyst Estevao Maximo of Pinstripe Alley believes the Yankees to sign Kike Hernandez in free agency.
“As free agent and trade options dwindle, those still available receive a more detailed look and that is the case for Kiké Hernández, who happens to check a lot of boxes for the Yankees,” writes Maximo. “In fact, Hernández ticks so many boxes that he was almost signed by the Yankees not too long ago. The player chose to return to Los Angeles after deciding between the Yankees and Dodgers during his previous free agent decision.
“Moving on to the Yankees and the fit with Hernández, the majority of the reasons why pursuing his services made sense a year ago still apply, despite all of the roster changes since then.” As things stand, Oswaldo Cabrera is the most likely candidate to start in the Yankees’ infield in 2025 with Jazz Chisholm Jr., whether at second or third base,” Maximo stated.
Hernandez nearly signed with the Yankees last summer, so the team has expressed interest in him in the past. He can also play many positions and play effectively defensively, which would be a significant advantage for New York.
Hernandez hit.229 in 2024, with 12 home runs and 42 RBIs for the Dodgers. He was a member of Los Angeles’ World Series rosters in 2020 and 2024.
Analyst Makes Case for Yankees to Sign Hernandez
Along with providing insurance in the infield, Hernandez can also play in the outfield if necessary.
If Jasson Dominguez struggles, Hernandez could provide depth in left field, which is why Maximo believes the Yankees should sign the versatile outfielder.
“Looking beyond a possible third-base starter, Hernandez possesses a unique amount of versatility, having played shortstop and center field. Maximo suggests that a defensive trio of Hernández, Bellinger, and Judge would be effective, even if Jasson DomÃnguez is the preferred outfielder.
“Worst-case scenario, Hernández can be the first man off the bench for various positions, allowing the team to maintain a ton of flexibility on that front and with the rest of the bench,” says Maximo. “Hernández, an emergency pitcher for 4.2 innings, has extensive experience at every position on the field except catcher, with over 100 career starts at center, second base, and shortstop. If he remains interested in wearing pinstripes, the Yankees may be wise to pursue him for a second consecutive offseason.”
Hernandez, 33, is anticipated to accept a short-term contract, making it a low-risk move for the Yankees.
Dodgers Likely to Move on From Hernandez
Hernandez has been a valuable member of the Dodgers’ squad for several years, but his time in Los Angeles is likely finished.
The Dodgers just signed Korean infielder Hyeseong Kim, thereby ending Hernandez’s hopes of re-signing with Los Angeles.
Los Angeles intends to deploy Kim in a super-utility role, similar to what Hernandez had done for the Dodgers.
