Dodgers’ Kiké Hernández to Miss World Baseball Classic After Surgery

Kiké Hernández is a seasoned MLB utility player and three-time World Series champ. Now, he’s staring down a tough offseason challenge.

After left elbow surgery, the 13-year vet won’t represent Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. This setback doesn’t just keep him off the international stage—it also raises doubts about his future in Major League Baseball, especially with the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Elbow Injury Ends Classic Dreams

Hernández confirmed the surgery on Saturday. It’s now official—he won’t suit up for Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic.

The national team will really feel his absence. Hernández has been a key figure in the 2017 and 2023 tournaments, and missing out stings for him, too.

Representing his homeland? That’s always meant a lot to him. This is a tough one to swallow.

The Origins of the Setback

The elbow injury goes back to late May 2025. Hernández, playing for the Dodgers, slid headfirst into home plate and did some real damage.

He landed on the injured list. Hoping to avoid surgery, he came back in late August, but the pain stuck around.

That decision showed his grit, but it made things worse. The muscle in his left arm ended up detaching from the bone.

Playing Through Pain in Championship Season

Even with the injury, Hernández kept playing through the postseason. He came up big on defense when it counted.

His highlight? Game 6 of the World Series against the Blue Jays. He started a crucial double play that helped the Dodgers clinch their third title during his time there.

Season Numbers Paint a Tough Picture

Statistically, 2025 wasn’t kind to him. Hernández finished with a .203 batting average and a .621 OPS over 92 regular-season games.

Those numbers are below his usual standards. Still, it’s clear he played most of the year while hurting.

Dodgers Icon in October

There’s one thing that stands out, injury or not. Hernández now owns the Dodgers franchise record for most postseason games played, with 92 playoff contests.

That kind of October experience is rare. It really shows the trust his managers have had in him—and his knack for coming through when it matters.

The Free Agent Factor

Right now, Hernández is a free agent. He and the Dodgers are still talking about a possible return.

Both sides seem interested, but his health is a big question mark. Teams want to know when he’ll be ready before making any moves.

What’s Next for Kiké Hernández?

With his 13th MLB season on the horizon, these questions hang over Hernández’s offseason:

• Recovery Timeline: Can he make it back by Opening Day, or will he miss the start of 2026?
• Free Agency Market: Will teams take a shot on a versatile player coming off surgery?
• International Play: Could he get another shot at wearing Puerto Rico’s colors?

Legacy Already Cemented

Even if injuries slow him down, Hernández has already left a mark on Dodgers history. He’s got the postseason record, defensive versatility, and he’s a clubhouse favorite—fans and teammates both know it.

Final Thoughts

The elbow surgery brings a lot of uncertainty. Still, Hernández’s career has always been about resilience and adaptability.

His recovery could shape the next part of his MLB journey. Dodgers fans — and plenty of Puerto Rican baseball supporters — are waiting for updates, probably hoping history repeats itself and Hernández fights his way back onto the diamond.

Grit often separates the good from the great in baseball. Kiké Hernández keeps proving he belongs with the best.

The next few months will test him again. But honestly, for a guy who thrives under pressure, isn’t this just another inning in a wild, remarkable career?

 
Here is the source article for this story: Dodgers’ Kiké Hernández to miss World Baseball Classic after undergoing surgery