The Los Angeles Dodgers just might be getting healthy for the stretch run. Super-utility man Kiké Hernández is slated to be the designated hitter tonight with Triple-A Oklahoma City, according to Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register. Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts said that it “seems feasible” that Hernández gets activated from the injured list to return as early as next week.
Dodgers Vet Kiké Hernández to Return Soon
Kike’ Hernandez is scheduled to start rehab assignment with OKC tonight as DH. Getting him back to #Dodgers some time next week is “feasible,” per Dave Roberts.
Hyeseong Kim will also join OKC this week— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) August 21, 2025
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The Swiss Army Knife
Hernández, who has played all positions on the diamond except catcher, has been out since late May with an elbow injury. This has impaired his ability to swing the bat. He is currently hitting .195 with eight homers. The bespectacled super-utilityman was seen taking infield grounders at third base, and his return will give the Dodgers increased flexibility on the roster and a clutch bat off the bench. If the Dodgers manage to clinch a postseason berth this year, Hernández loves it when the calendar hits October. He is hitting above a .340 batting average for his career once the leaves turn.
More Good News?
In addition to Hernández, infielder Hyeseong Kim is also starting a rehab assignment at Oklahoma City. Kim will hopefully shore up a defense that has proven to be lackluster at times. The rookie also flirted with a .400 batting average before a sore shoulder torpedoed his fast start and shut him down for a while. Kim is still batting over .300, and his speed has gotten him a dozen stolen bases in limited playing time. This could be the spark that an inconsistent offense needs.
In the Pen
Meanwhile, a few high-leverage right-handed relievers will fill out the bullpen by the end of August. Tanner Scott, Kirby Yates, and Michael Kopech are on different stages of a rehab assignment and are set to return. The Dodgers are going to need all hands on deck in order to win the National League West this year.
Main Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
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