Dodgers News: Kiké Hernández Arrives in San Juan to Support Team Puerto Rico Following Birth of Son
Why Kiké Hernández Joined Team Puerto Rico Despite Injury
San Juan, PR — Just days after welcoming a new baby into his family, Kiké Hernández made the trip to Puerto Rico.
The Los Angeles Dodgers utility man isn’t able to play in this year’s World Baseball Classic due to injury, but he still wanted to be around Team Puerto Rico to support the group and offer veteran leadership during the tournament.
Leaving home so soon after the birth of his child wasn’t easy.
“It’s difficult,” Hernández said. “Not just leaving my baby, but leaving Mariana.”
Hernández and his wife Mariana recently welcomed their newborn son, making the decision to travel a challenging one. The veteran said the experience of watching his wife give birth gave him an even greater appreciation for what mothers go through.
“What women go through giving birth makes them superheroes,” Hernández said.
Even though he cannot contribute on the field, Hernández said it still means a lot to be present with the team in the clubhouse.
“For me it’s an honor to be here in any capacity,” Hernández said.
The veteran has played in multiple World Baseball Classics and believes his experience in high-pressure games can still help the team.
“There’s nothing that can happen on the field that I haven’t seen before,” Hernández said. “Sometimes things coming from another player mean more than coming from a coach.”
Hernández said he asked the Dodgers for permission to make the trip, but the most important approval came from his wife.
“The first thing I did was ask for permission,” Hernández said. “And the most important permission was from Mariana.”
Even though he may be “dad” at home, Hernández said representing Puerto Rico — even from the dugout — still means a great deal to him.
👉 More Dodgers Coverage:
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!ews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on
