Dave Roberts expects Kiké Hernández to be back with the Dodgers soon after an Oklahoma City rehab stint, moving Max Muncy to the side with a wrist issue tied to a pitch. Roberts also outlined how Hernández’s first game back could line up and what it means as L
When the Dodgers step back into their usual rhythm, it may come with a familiar swing of the bat and a practiced glove—because Dave Roberts is setting the timeline for Kiké Hernández’s return.
Los Angeles has spent much of the season without its full complement. but the back-to-back defending World Series champions are once again in first place in the National League West. Still, the margin is thin: they are just 1/2 game ahead of the San Diego Padres. The Dodgers have also steadied themselves lately, winning seven of their last 10 games.
Hernández, meanwhile, has been grinding through a rehab assignment with the Dodgers’ Triple-A affiliate in Oklahoma City. Roberts said Hernández will play with that team Saturday night, then return to Los Angeles after that stretch.
The manager’s next step is even more specific. Roberts expects Hernández to be in the lineup Monday and to play third base for the Dodgers, taking over the spot of Max Muncy.
Muncy’s absence is tied to a wrist problem after he was hit by a pitch. Roberts indicated that Muncy should be able to return in the games that follow.
For Hernández, this season has been about healing. He has not played this season as he recovers from elbow surgery he had in the offseason. The 2024 return matters because Hernández has been a long-time option in big moments—he has played in 12 big league seasons. including nine with the Dodgers and three with the Boston Red Sox.
Last year. Hernández delivered the kind of production the Dodgers have leaned on: he hit 10 home runs and drove in 35 runs while playing in 92 games. His best season came in 2021 with the Red Sox. when he bashed 20 home runs and drove in 60 runs while playing in 134 games. He also hit 21 home runs in the 2018 season for the Dodgers.
Hernández’s résumé goes deeper than regular-season numbers. He has 16 postseason home runs and has driven in 42 runs while playing in 103 playoff and World Series games.
With Hernández set to come back from a rehab stint and slide in at third base Monday, the Dodgers aren’t just chasing wins—they’re trying to plug a hole during a week where the NL West lead is measured in half a game.
Los Angeles Dodgers Dave Roberts Kiké Hernández Max Muncy injury update Oklahoma City rehab assignment NL West San Diego Padres third base