On the eve of the All-Star Break, the Los Angeles Dodgers received some welcome news. Utility man Kiké Hernández may be on the cusp of returning soon after the Midsummer Classic, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. Hernández has been out since Memorial Day weekend with an oblique tear, suffered just after he returned to the active roster. This piece of information came straight from Hernández, who said that if rehab continues to progress, he will return after the first road trip of the second half. This is considerably sooner than what was originally thought.
Kiké Hernández Eyeing Early Second-Half Return
Short-Lived Recovery
Hernández, who was on the injured list coming out of spring training this year, has uncharacteristically missed all but two games this season. The infielder/outfielder has played all the positions on the baseball diamond except for catcher. He spent a chunk of 2025 on the sideline as well due to an elbow injury, thanks to an awkward slide. He made his return this year with a bang. He had several runs batted in and a home run. Ironically, it was the swing on the round-tripper that landed him on the IL for the second time in as many days. He was originally projected to be out of commission for two months at minimum.
Kiké Hernández said he expects to be active during the Dodgers’ first homestand of the second half, if all continues to go well with his rehab.
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) July 10, 2026
A Man for the Moment
The versatility of Hernández is an important asset at any time of the year, and it is something the Dodgers value on their roster. Hernández is a prime example. However, the charismatic fan-favorite admits he gets bored during the regular season. Hernández hits for a .240 batting average with some pop, which surfaces during opportune times. However, he thrives the most during the postseason. His average climbs to .333, and he has 16 career postseason homers across 10 years.
The Good News Doesn’t Stop
Closer Edwin Díaz, who landed on the injured list early in the season, has completed several bullpen sessions, including facing hitters. He is scheduled to begin a rehab assignment soon. Likewise, starting pitcher Blake Snell is pain-free for the first time in two years and is progressing well en route to his return.
It appears, for the moment, that the Dodgers are getting some big pieces back early in the second half.
Main Photo Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
