Dodgers Face Tough Decisions as Kiké Hernández’s Elbow Injury Forces Roster Moves Amid Critical Stretch of the Season

The Los Angeles Dodgers, already navigating a season filled with highs, lows, and championship aspirations, now find themselves confronted with another curveball — this time involving one of their most versatile players. Kiké Hernández, the fan-favorite utility man known for his defensive flexibility and clutch postseason moments, is battling an elbow injury that could force the Dodgers into significant roster adjustments in the coming days.

The news broke earlier this week, sending ripples of concern through the Dodgers’ clubhouse and fan base alike. Hernández, who has provided invaluable depth across the diamond, is experiencing discomfort in his right elbow — an ailment that has lingered long enough for the team’s medical staff to recommend further evaluation.

While the severity of the injury is still being assessed, early indications suggest that the Dodgers are preparing for the possibility of placing Hernández on the injured list. Such a move, though precautionary, comes at an inconvenient time for a team trying to maintain momentum in the thick of a tightly contested National League West race.

For Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, the decision on how to handle Hernández’s injury is layered with complexity.

“You never want to lose a guy like Kiké,” Roberts said ahead of Tuesday night’s game at Dodger Stadium. “What he brings to this team — the versatility, the energy, the experience — it’s hard to replicate that. But right now, his health comes first.”

Hernández’s elbow discomfort first surfaced during the team’s recent road trip, where he was seen flexing and favoring his arm during pregame drills. Though he initially attempted to play through the issue, it became increasingly clear that rest — and possibly time away from the active roster — would be necessary.

The 32-year-old Hernández, now in his second stint with the Dodgers after being reacquired last season from the Boston Red Sox, has carved out a vital role as Los Angeles’ Swiss Army knife. His ability to play nearly every position outside of pitcher and catcher has been a stabilizing force, especially as the Dodgers have weathered their share of injuries to key starters.

This season, Hernández has primarily seen action at third base and shortstop but has also made appearances in the outfield, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most adaptable players in baseball. His defensive prowess and steady clubhouse presence have made him a favorite among teammates and coaches alike.

Offensively, Hernández has contributed in timely moments, even if his numbers don’t jump off the stat sheet. Through 75 games this season, he’s hitting .225 with five home runs and 22 RBIs — production that, while modest, has often come in high-leverage situations. His postseason track record further underscores his value, with memorable performances that Dodgers fans won’t soon forget, including his three-homer game in the 2017 NLCS.

But with Hernández’s elbow now in question, the Dodgers are exploring contingency plans. Sources within the organization indicate that several Triple-A options are being evaluated as potential call-ups should Hernández land on the injured list. Among the names being discussed are Miguel Vargas, Michael Busch, and Andy Pages — young players with varying degrees of major league experience and positional flexibility.

Vargas, once considered one of the organization’s top prospects, offers infield depth and a promising bat but struggled in his previous MLB stint. Busch provides corner infield power and has been red-hot in Triple-A Oklahoma City, making him an intriguing option. Pages, meanwhile, brings outfield defense and raw power, though his timeline may still be ahead of schedule.

The decision on who to promote — if necessary — will hinge not only on positional needs but also on the Dodgers’ broader strategy as they approach the trade deadline. With the team eyeing another deep postseason run, front office executives led by Andrew Friedman are likely weighing both immediate roster patches and long-term upgrades.

For now, the hope is that Hernández’s injury proves minor, and that rest and treatment will suffice. But given the demands of the 162-game grind, the Dodgers are unlikely to take unnecessary risks with a player so integral to their depth chart.

Roberts remained cautiously optimistic but acknowledged the uncertainty.

“We’ll see how he responds to treatment over the next couple of days,” Roberts said. “We’ve got a great medical staff, and Kiké knows his body as well as anyone. But we’re going to be smart about it.”

The injury to Hernández comes as the Dodgers are already navigating challenges to their roster. Shortstop Mookie Betts remains sidelined with a fractured hand, forcing the team to shuffle defensive assignments. Utility man Chris Taylor has also dealt with lingering health issues, limiting his availability. That combination has amplified Hernández’s importance, making his potential absence even more impactful.

Adding to the stakes is the current state of the National League West standings. The Dodgers entered this week locked in a tight battle with the San Diego Padres and the surprising Arizona Diamondbacks. Every game matters, and depth pieces like Hernández often make the difference in grinding out wins over the dog days of summer.

For Hernández, the injury represents a frustrating hurdle during a season where he’s embraced his role as a utility veteran on a championship-caliber roster.

“This team has so much talent, so many guys who can step up,” Hernández said recently, reflecting on the Dodgers’ depth. “I just want to do my part, stay ready, and help in any way I can.”

His sentiment echoes throughout a Dodgers clubhouse accustomed to adversity. From pitching injuries to lineup reshuffling, Los Angeles has consistently found ways to stay competitive — a testament to both roster construction and organizational culture.

But losing Hernández, even temporarily, tests that depth once again. His defensive versatility cannot be overstated, nor can the intangible leadership he brings — attributes that don’t always show up in box scores but resonate deeply over the course of a marathon season.

As for the Dodgers’ fans, the hope is that Hernández’s elbow discomfort proves to be nothing more than a minor setback. Social media was flooded with well-wishes for the beloved utility player, with hashtags like #GetWellKike trending among the True Blue faithful.

“Dodger fans know what Kiké means to this team,” Roberts said. “He’s a competitor, and he’ll do everything he can to get back out there. But we’ll make sure we’re doing right by him.”

While no official roster moves have been announced, the Dodgers’ front office is expected to make a decision within the next 48 hours, particularly as the club prepares for a crucial homestand against division rivals. The outcome could influence trade discussions, minor league promotions, and the delicate balancing act of keeping the Dodgers’ roster championship-ready.

Injuries are an inevitable part of baseball, but for a team with World Series ambitions, the timing and response can often define the season. As the Dodgers mull their next steps with Kiké Hernández sidelined, one thing is certain: the resilience and resourcefulness that have come to define this era of Dodgers baseball will once again be put to the test.