Red Sox trim their roster by trading Kiké Hernández to the Dodgers

The Boston Red Sox have positioned themselves well enough to strongly consider being buyers at the trade deadline this season. However, that does not mean that they shouldn't also sell off spare parts on their roster as well.

There has been no shortage of Adam Duvall rumors and one trade idea that has gained a lot of traction recently is the move to send Kiké Hernández back to the Dodgers. While Hernandez has struggled mightily this year in a Red Sox uniform, the Dodgers value his ability to hit left-handed pitching and are very familiar with him. LA ultimately did decide to pull the trigger as Ken Rosenthal and others have reported that Boston is indeed sending Hernandez back to the Dodgers.

What does the Kiké Hernández trade mean for the Boston Red Sox?

Given the state of Boston's Red Sox, losing Kiké Hernández isn't likely to be felt much if at all. Hernandez has posted a .599 OPS this season and defensive metrics really did not like him at all this season. With Trevor Story returning soon and better infield options on the roster, Hernández didn't really have a role on the team anymore.

For the Dodgers, they are clearly hoping that can get Hernandez back to the guy he was previous who had a .800+ OPS against opposing lefties. Kiké played for six seasons in LA and the Dodgers don't make this move unless they think they can unlock something there.

As for the return for Boston, it is currently unknown but is not likely to be much. Hernandez is both a pending free agent and is making real money in 2023 at $10 million. Some amount of cash may end up being sent and both teams could call it a day. Just don't expect Boston to get a high end prospect back in the deal.

UPDATE: Multiple sources are now reporting that the Dodgers are sending back two minor league relievers, Nick Robertson and Justin Hagenman, in the deal. Nicely done, Chaim Bloom and co.

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