Dodgers' Kiké Hernandez Announces Personal News Amid Spring Training

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Mar 4, 2026 7:36 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers are looking to make another trip to the World Series in 2026, hoping to three‑peat as champions. This offseason, they added multiple All‑Stars in free agency, including outfielder Kyle Tucker and closer Edwin Diaz, while also bringing back two trusted veterans: infielder Miguel Rojas and utility man Kiké Hernandez.

Hernandez, in particular, has become a postseason legend and fan favorite in Los Angeles. Last year was no different, as he delivered several key moments that helped the Dodgers win another title. He now owns three World Series rings with the franchise.

Even more remarkable is that he delivered that postseason production after a regular season in which he hit .203 with a .255 on‑base percentage, .621 OPS, 10 home runs and 35 RBIs across 92 games. Still, his postseason heroics earned him a one‑year, $4.5 million contract to return for what will be his 10th season with the Dodgers.

Los Angeles Dodgers left fielder Enrique Hernandez (8)© Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images

As Hernandez prepares for that milestone year, he is looking to stay healthier after dealing with multiple setbacks in 2025. He underwent offseason surgery to repair a torn extensor tendon in his left elbow, which has kept him from participating in spring training activities.

He is currently on the 60‑day injured list, and the hope is that he will have a chance to return before the All‑Star break. Even so, Hernandez has had other major life events to focus on. On Wednesday, he took to Instagram to announce the birth of his second child.

“02.25.26; the day Penelope became a big sister! #SantiagoJose #LosAmoConTo,” the post read. Hernandez’s wife, Mariana Vicente, whom he married in 2018, is now a mother of two, with their daughter Penelope welcoming her baby brother.

As Hernandez celebrates the birth of his son, his attention will eventually shift back to baseball. He is currently away from Dodgers camp after joining Team Puerto Rico for the World Baseball Classic, not as a player but to support the national team and represent his home country.

The Dodgers are expected to be cautious with him throughout the spring, especially since they brought him back primarily for his postseason value. Los Angeles knows exactly what Hernandez can provide in October, and ensuring he is healthy by then will be a key part of their pursuit of a third straight championship.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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