Dodgers-Cardinals Trade Potential Grows Following Kiké Hernandez Update

The Los Angeles Dodgers, fresh off consecutive World Series victories, are setting their sights on a third straight championship in 2026. A key factor in their recent postseason dominance has been Enrique Hernandez, a versatile utility player known for delivering under pressure. This postseason, the 34-year-old continued his trend, posting 16 hits, five extra-base hits including a home run, and seven RBIs over 17 playoff games. His defensive contributions were also pivotal in helping Los Angeles secure the Fall Classic over the Toronto Blue Jays.

Hernandez is now entering unrestricted free agency once more. While he has achieved the peak of his 12-year career with the Dodgers, a return is not guaranteed, even with mutual interest between player and team.

Complicating matters, Hernandez recently underwent left elbow surgery to repair a torn tendon. Speaking on "Baseball & Coffee" with former MLB reliever Adam Ottavino, Hernandez disclosed that the injury was more serious than initially thought. They went in thinking it was going to be an extensor release, and when they went in, they realized I had torn that thing completely off the bone. So it turned out to be an extensor repair. Ill be out for, like, a month or two next year, he said. This means he could miss all of spring training and a large portion of the first half of the season.

Amid Hernandezs uncertain recovery, trade speculation has intensified. On Tuesday, ESPNs Jeff Passan reported that the St. Louis Cardinals All-Star utility player Brendan Donovan could be a potential target for the Dodgers. Donovan, 28, has the flexibility to play second base, third base, or left field, making him an attractive option. Passan suggested there is a roughly 75% chance such a trade could occur, highlighting the Dodgers as the leading candidate for his services.

Donovan comes off a career-best 2025 season, hitting .287 with a .353 on-base percentage, a .775 OPS, 10 home runs, and 50 RBIs over 118 games. For Los Angeles, acquiring Donovan would provide depth and insurance across multiple positions, though Hernandezs health and performance remain central to the teams plans.

Ultimately, Hernandezs postseason experience and versatility make him a critical piece for the Dodgers. His recovery and future role will heavily influence roster decisions as the team prepares for the 2026 season, making him one of the most closely watched players this offseason.

Author: Zoe Harrison