Los Angeles utility man Quique Hernandez was a productive defensive presence in every position he was sought for.
Especially in some of the depth issues LA has been fighting for throughout the season, Hernández has been plugged into first, second, three base, and Left and Centerfield. Needless to say, Hernández has made five appearances this season as a relief pitcher when circumstances allow.
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Hernandez spoke to insider Megan Garcia about goals he has yet to achieve in his MLB career and the player he coached at the 2023 Utility Gold Globe Awards by Houston Astros infielder Mauricio Dubon.
“When (Dubon) won the Gold Gloves, he actually texted me and said, ‘Thank you for helping me.’ He said I played a big role in getting him to win the utility gold gloves,” Hernandez said. “It was a pretty cool moment for me. Gold gloves were my goal and my dream of life, but I can let someone know that I helped me get them, but it’s still pretty cool.”
Hernandez had a catalyst that was unlikely to have put his career into the utility route.
Hernandez was still in the Houston farm system as his second baseman, but he was close to breaking out in 2014, but had a considerable blockage in the form of All-Star Altoove, which resembles the future of the Texas franchise.
This forced Hernandez to improve on providing him with his services where he needed him, leading to his debut on July 1, 2014. The 2014 season was a campaign where Hernandez played shortstop, left field and center field.
But for Hernandez, being the ‘ Swiss Army Knife is not more than the role he carved for himself, but a part of his identity.
“It’s like being part of who I am. I’m just not used to playing in one place and I think it keeps something interesting for me.
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Photo credit: Darren Yamashita-Usa Today Sports
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