The New York Yankees, facing a gap in their infield following Gleyber Torres’s departure to the Detroit Tigers, are reportedly exploring options to bolster their roster, either through free agency or trade. One potential solution proposed by Brendan Duty of The Athletic involves acquiring Kike Hernández, a free agent utility player most recently with the Los Angeles Dodgers. This suggestion stems from prior interest the Yankees had in Hernández, as reported, before he signed with the Dodgers last year. The reunion possibility, coupled with Hernández’s projected affordable contract of around $3 million, makes him a seemingly attractive option for the cost-conscious Yankees seeking depth and versatility.
Hernández, 33, offers a proven track record of playing multiple positions, primarily second base, shortstop, and center field. While his offensive production in 2023 wasn’t stellar, posting an 85 OPS+ with a .229/.281/.373 slash line, he still managed 12 home runs and contributed a 1.3 WAR. His defensive versatility and experience, combined with his relatively low cost, make him a potentially valuable asset for the Yankees, who are looking to fill the void left by Torres without breaking the bank. While he’s not a game-changer, Hernández could provide crucial depth and flexibility to the Yankees’ infield and outfield alignments.
The Yankees’ interest in Hernández is not merely hypothetical; they were reportedly in deep discussions with him before he ultimately chose the Dodgers in the previous offseason. This prior engagement suggests a level of familiarity and perceived fit within the Yankees’ organization, potentially streamlining any negotiations this time around. Furthermore, the relatively inexpensive projected contract, estimated at around $3 million, aligns with the Yankees’ apparent focus on fiscal prudence and efficient roster management. Acquiring a player like Hernández at such a low price point would allow the Yankees to allocate resources to other areas of need while still addressing their infield gap.
Hernández’s versatility is a key element of his appeal. His ability to play multiple positions across the infield and outfield provides the Yankees with much-needed flexibility in roster construction and game-day management. He can slot into second or third base, filling the immediate vacancy left by Torres, while also providing coverage in other areas if needed due to injuries or strategic shifts. This versatility allows the Yankees to carry a more diverse bench, optimizing their roster for various game situations and opponent matchups.
While Hernández’s offensive performance in 2023 wasn’t outstanding, it’s important to consider the context. He was playing for a Dodgers team already rich with offensive talent, which may have lessened the pressure on him to be a primary run producer. In a new environment with the Yankees, he might be afforded more opportunities to contribute offensively. Furthermore, even if his offensive output remains at a similar level, his defensive versatility and low cost still make him a valuable addition to a team seeking depth and flexibility.
The potential acquisition of Hernández aligns with the Yankees’ overall roster strategy. They appear to be prioritizing value and versatility, looking for players who can contribute in multiple ways without commanding exorbitant salaries. This approach allows them to maintain a competitive roster while managing payroll and allocating resources strategically. Hernández fits this mold perfectly, offering a combination of experience, defensive versatility, and offensive potential at a very affordable price. While he’s unlikely to be the centerpiece of the Yankees’ lineup, he could be a valuable role player who contributes to the team’s overall success.
