Steve Webb
NEW YORK, NY — Kiké Hernández keeps being Kiké. In yet another October moment, Hernandez smashed a two-run homer to give the Dodgers some breathing room in the game. Speaking to the media after the game, Hernández provided insight into his game-changing home run, the impact of playing conditions, and the team’s mindset during the playoff run.
Discussing his sixth-inning homer, Hernández explained that the wind conditions at Citi Field had a noticeable effect on fly balls throughout the game. “During BP, Clayton McCullough, our first base and outfield coach, talked to me about how they did a study on the wind here,” Hernández said. He noted that early in the game, the wind blew from the first base dugout to left field but then shifted toward right center as the night wore on. This shifting wind left Hernández initially doubtful when he hit the home run. “I knew that I hit it, and I thought it was going to be way gone,” he recalled. “Then I saw [Brandon] Nimmo try to jump for it, and I kind of panicked for half a second.” Ultimately, the ball cleared the wall, giving the Dodgers a four-run lead and a surge of momentum.
Hernández acknowledged the importance of setting the table for his teammates, particularly Shohei Ohtani, who batted behind him. With Ohtani’s well-known prowess with runners on base, Hernández said, “Hitting ninth is a little bit different… especially with that guy behind me.” He was disappointed with his first two at-bats, where he failed to get on base, but his focus shifted in the third at-bat. “I was trying to battle to put myself in a position to either get on, walk, or get a hit,” he explained, which ultimately led to his clutch home run.
The Dodgers’ postseason experience has played a crucial role in their playoff performance, and Hernández emphasized the importance of visualizing success in October. “I do a lot of visualization at night before the games,” he shared. “I try to put myself in every position… and I visualize myself having success.” His history of strong postseason play has boosted his confidence, which, in turn, has helped elevate his game during these high-pressure situations.
Walker Buehler’s performance on the mound also earned praise from Hernández. Despite the pressure of the postseason, Buehler delivered an outstanding performance, keeping the Mets scoreless. “There are certain players that like the spotlight, that like playing in October,” Hernández said. “Every time he’s on the mound, especially in October, we feel good about our chances.” He noted that while Buehler had to dig deep to secure the victory, his ability to get key outs and swing-and-misses when needed showcased his poise under pressure.
Reflecting on the game, Hernández expressed some regret that the Dodgers were unable to provide additional run support in the fifth inning to allow Buehler a chance to earn the win. “The only thing I’m kind of bummed about is that we weren’t able to score a couple runs in the fifth inning to allow him to go out there one more time,” he admitted.
With the victory, the Dodgers took a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, putting them in a strong position as they push toward another World Series appearance. As Hernández and the Dodgers continue their playoff journey, the team’s experience, focus, and clutch performances will be vital in their quest for a championship.
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