The Los Angeles Dodgers have been without one of their most versatile players in utility man Kiké Hernandez, who has been sidelined since early July with an elbow injury.
More news: MLB Power Rankings: Dodgers Flaws Showing, Yankees Plummeting, Brewers Separating From The Pack
There was concern Hernandez would not be able to return this season as the 33-year-old underwent multiple non-surgical procedures to address a sprain in his left elbow.
Manager Dave Roberts provided the latest update on the fan favorite, who was seen taking ground balls at third base over the weekend.
“Yeah, he is,” manager Dave Roberts answered when asked if Hernandez could ramp up soon. “I think he’s pain-free, played catch, and he’s coming. He’s doing baseball activities now, still think that it’s kind of a September 1 situation. I think that’s kind of a broad, vague, grayish kind of date, but I think that’s kind of looking at the rehab and getting back.
“I think that’s kind of what we’re hoping for.”
The target date of Sept. 1 comes during the month’s roster expansion just ahead of the playoffs.
Hernandez has had a down year, hitting .195 with eight home runs, 22 runs batted in, and an OPS of .626. However, he’s earned a reputation for shining when the lights are brightest.
Last postseason, Hernandez slashed .294/.357/.451 with an OPS of .808. The Dodgers will need that type of production from the utility man once again, and it appears LA is hopeful Hernandez will be ready for October.
More news: Dave Roberts Calls Out Shohei Ohtani for 2 Critical Mistakes in Dodgers Loss to Blue Jays
Photo Credit: Jonathan Hui-Imagn Images
Have you joined our Discord Channel yet? Be a part of the ultimate Dodgers Nation community and get VIP Nation Access! Don’t miss out on real-time Dodgers talk, call-in access to Dodgers Dougout, behind-the-scenes content, exclusive interviews, giveaways, and more!