Dodgers News: Kiké Hernández Says World Baseball Classic Can Feel Bigger Than the World Series
Why the WBC Atmosphere Rivals the World Series for Kiké Hernández
San Juan, PR — Few players in baseball have experienced the biggest stages of the sport quite like Kiké Hernández.
The Los Angeles Dodgers veteran has played in five World Series during his career, but when asked about the atmosphere surrounding the World Baseball Classic, Hernández said the international tournament can feel just as intense — and sometimes even bigger.
“The World Series is the biggest thing in the sport because it’s what you dream about as a kid,” Hernández said. “You always imagine Game 7, bases loaded, full count.”
After playing in both events, Hernández said the World Baseball Classic carries a different kind of emotion for players representing their home countries.
“I’ve played in five World Series and two Classics,” Hernández said. “The Classic doesn’t have anything to envy from anyone.”
In fact, Hernández admitted the tournament can sometimes feel even bigger than the sport’s biggest championship stage.
“The Classic can even feel above the World Series,” Hernández said. “Maybe it’s because of what we have on our chest.”
For players representing Puerto Rico, wearing their country’s name across the front of the jersey brings a level of pride that changes the entire experience.
With the tournament returning to Puerto Rico, Hernández expects the atmosphere to be electric once again.
According to Hernández, the energy from the crowd can actually elevate a player’s performance rather than create added pressure.
“It’s not pressure,” Hernández said. “It’s energy and adrenaline that can raise your level of play.”
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