Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts provided an update on utility man Quique Hernandez’s injury status ahead of the ‘ NLCS game against the Milwaukee Brewers.
Roberts said Hernandez is healthy and that a few extra days of rest after the NLDS win helped him recover. Hernandez limped around the box in the 11th inning of Game 4 against the Philadelphia Phillies.
This update is good news for the , as Hernandez has played in every game this postseason and has been a key contributor on both offense and defense.
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Hernandez has seven hits in 22 at-bats, a .318 batting average and an .809 OPS. He has had hits in all of the ‘ postseason games, except one so far.
The veteran struggled with injuries early in the postseason, leaving Game 1 of the Wild Card Series with an apparent back injury.
The could decide to give Hernandez additional rest during the NLCS if his condition worsens, in which case they would rely on Max Muncy and Alex Cole, who start at third base and left field, respectively. But they’ll be hoping that’s not the case, as Hernandez has proven to be an important part of this team.
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Director of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman spoke with Hernandez about the important role he will play heading into the postseason.
“We all saw the level of focus and energy that Kike brings, especially in October, that was a big factor in wanting to have him back this offseason,” Friedman said.
“He’s been doing a little bit better here lately and I feel like his swing is in a better spot. And his ability to slow things down a little bit and take what the pitcher gives him and add really good defense on top of that is something we feel really comfortable betting on.”
Photo credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
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