Kiké Hernández, a versatile player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is currently facing significant challenges due to a left elbow injury sustained in the 2025 MLB season. Despite vigorous efforts to recover and return to the field, his status remains uncertain as the Dodgers navigate a critical stretch of the season with limited depth on the roster.
Injury and Recovery Efforts
Kiké Hernández was placed on the injured list in early July after dealing with persistent inflammation in his left elbow. The injury reportedly resulted from an awkward slide into home plate in late May, which Hernández initially concealed from the Dodgers’ management, hoping to play through the pain. After enduring soreness for over a month, he eventually received a cortisone injection following an MRI that ruled out more severe damage.
Despite this treatment, the elbow inflammation persisted, prompting Hernández to undergo several non-surgical procedures, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapies aimed at accelerating healing. Manager Dave Roberts stated that while the team remains hopeful that Hernández can return before the season’s end, no timeline or guarantee exists. His rehabilitation currently involves light throwing only, with no full baseball activities resumed so far.
Impact on the Dodgers and Team Dynamics
Hernández’s absence adds pressure on the Dodgers’ roster, which is already stretched thin due to injuries to key position players like Max Muncy and Hyeseong Kim. The utility player’s versatility — contributing both in the infield and outfield — makes his potential return strategically important. The Dodgers addressed some depth concerns by acquiring outfielder Alex Call before the trade deadline, but Hernández’s unique skill set remains hard to replace fully.
On the season, Hernández has struggled offensively, posting a .195 batting average with eight home runs and 22 RBIs in 72 games. These stats reflect a challenging year exacerbated by his injury struggles. Nevertheless, his experience and utility value are considered significant assets for the team’s playoff aspirations.
Future Considerations
Looking beyond 2025, Kiké Hernández has expressed a strong desire to remain with the Dodgers, acknowledging the mutual benefits of their partnership. Although his current injury presents an obstacle, both the player and organization seem aligned in striving for a reunion in the coming seasons. Hernández’s resilience and adaptability have been well-documented throughout his career, factors that bode well for his future contributions once fully healthy.
Ultimately, Kiké Hernández’s 2025 season has been marked by setback and uncertainty, but efforts to expedite his recovery remain robust. His potential return could provide a meaningful boost for the Dodgers as they pursue championship ambitions, although the timeline and certainty of that return remain variables yet unresolved.
In summary, Kiké Hernández’s ongoing battle with a left elbow injury has cast a shadow over his 2025 campaign. Despite multiple treatments and a strong commitment to recovery, his participation for the remainder of the season is not guaranteed. His injury has accentuated roster challenges for the Dodgers, underscoring his value both on and off the field. Both player and team remain hopeful for a comeback, with an eye toward continuing their successful collaboration into the future.
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