Red Sox: Kiké Hernandez would provide team with a massive utility boost
Red Sox have a chance to fill their utility void by signing Kiké Hernandez
Since losing Brock Holt following the 2019 season, the Red Sox haven’t really found a replacement in terms of his utility player presence, this is where Kiké Hernandez comes in. Hernandez has played seven years in the majors, six of these with the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, where he spent time at just about every position. While he’s never been a big statistical guy, he’s performed consistently and shown up when the team has needed him most, just like Holt did during his tenure with the Red Sox.
Jose Peraza was brought in for the 2020 season but never looked like it would be a long-term fit. The second baseman has now joined the New York Mets. Since Holt’s departure, Jonathan Arauz has made a name for himself at third base, but he isn’t going to be someone who can play any position. The same goes for Christian Arroyo.
The Red Sox would benefit from getting in a guy who can cover spots in the infield and outfield, especially as their squad depth frails in comparison to what it was just a year ago.
Performance-wise, Hernandez dropped off slightly in the Dodgers victorious campaign last time out, with a .680 OPS. However, he did hit two home runs in the NLCS and bat in two-runs during the World Series – making him a key piece in the championship run. The Red Sox, who will have big aspirations, despite their current condition, need players like this. Guys who know their roles perfectly and know what they have to do in order to help their team win.
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During the 2020 season, Hernandez played every non-catcher and pitcher position on the diamond apart from third base. Rafael Devers will obviously be the Sox’s everyday third baseman and Arauz will be there too. For first and second, the Sox will have Arroyo, Michael Chavis, and Bobby Dalbec. You need another piece really with the lack of experience and uncertainty around who is going to stick to which position. Hernandez would solidify the Sox infield and allow them to get back to their solid selves, while also being an extra man to step into the outfield when needed.
Hernandez wouldn’t come into Boston with extreme expectations either. At a time where the Red Sox aren’t looking to sign marquee free agents, they just need players to help them remain competitive for the entirety of the upcoming season. He wouldn’t command a lot either, which is projected to be a two-year/$12 million deal. Boston just needs help at this stage. He’s a player who could flourish during a rebuild like the Sox are going through, who has the tools to remain a part of the team after getting through this stage.
Next. Red Sox reportedly targeting Kiké Hernandez. dark
The Sox have done well not to throw any of the money that they’ve created for themselves at a weak free-agent class. Players like Hernandez are going to be the ones who’ll make the difference in the short-term, and give the Sox the ability to sign these big-name free agents over the course of the next few years. The focus has to be on now and getting back to winning ways through smaller-scale moves. This is a deal that would benefit the Sox in every way.