Scouting Report
Updated May 20, 2026
Kiké Hernández (34-year-old utility player) began his Triple-A rehab assignment with Oklahoma City Comets on May 5, 2026, following left elbow tendon surgery in November 2025. In his rehab debut, he went 1-for-3 with a double. He is eligible to return to the Dodgers on May 24, 2026. Hernández reported feeling "fully healthy for the first time in about a year" and is ahead of schedule in his recovery. Through five games in rehab, he is 2-for-15 with a double. He received a thunderous ovation from Dodgers fans in Albuquerque during his rehab assignment. The player signed a one-year, $4.5 million deal with the Dodgers in February 2026.
Strengths
- + Ahead of schedule in recovery from elbow surgery
- + Reported feeling fully healthy for first time in a year
- + Strong initial rehab performance with double in debut
- + Three-time World Series champion with proven postseason experience
- + Versatile utility player who can play multiple positions
- + Positive reception from fans indicates strong reputation
- + Mentally engaged and focused on return
- + Spending quality time with family during recovery
Weaknesses
- - Chronic left elbow issues - missed 40 games in July-August 2025 with inflammation before requiring surgery
- - Limited sample size in rehab (2-for-15 through 5 games)
- - Age 34 with significant recovery timeline ahead
- - First time missing spring training and opening day in career
- - Lengthy rehab assignment required - not expected back until May 24
- - Struggling at the plate in rehab assignment (2-for-15 is .133 average)
- - Recovery from tendon tear is serious injury with uncertain timeline
Injury Status: IL-60
About
Kike Hernández is a first baseman for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Player Overview
1B
Los Angeles Dodgers