By Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
As the baseball offseason continues, it’s becoming clear that one of the Red Sox’ top priorities is improving their situation at second base.
Earlier in the week, it was reported that the team is pursing free agent shortstop Marcus Semien, with the hopes of having him change positions and play second in Boston. However, Semien isn’t the only option on the table.
According to a report from Chris Cotillo of MassLive, the Red Sox have “strong interest” in former Dodger Kiké Hernandez. The 29-year-old free agent is a true utility player, but has started more games at second base than any other position.
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Hernandez would likely give Red Sox flashbacks to Brock Holt, who left Boston as a free agent at this time last year. Hernandez has at least 10 career starts at every position but pitcher and catcher. As the Dodgers’ primary second baseman last season, he hit .230 with five home runs and 20 RBIs in 48 games.
As far as the Red Sox pursuit goes, they actually have an in with Hernandez. In 2017, he was recruited to play for his native Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic by that team’s general manager and current Red Sox manager Alex Cora.
The Red Sox could also use a veteran option at the position. Hernandez has played 690 career games, almost triple the combined total of the three current second base options on the roster in Michael Chavis, Jonathan Arauz, and Christian Arroyo. Dustin Pedroia technically remains on the roster but is not expected to play in 2021.
Cotillo’s report says “a deal is not believed to be imminent” between Hernandez and the Sox, and that there are other teams involved, meaning Hernandez isn’t quite a lock for Boston right now. However, he looks to be a fit for the club for a number of reasons, and is a name to monitor going forwards.
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Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at Alexander.Barth@bbgi.com.
