By Alex Barth, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Red Sox month-long pursuit of utility player Kiké Hernandez has come to an end. On Friday night Boston and Hernandez agreed to a two-year, $14 million dollar deal, as first reported by MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand.
Hernandez was first linked to the Red Sox back in late December. The 29-year-old is a true utility player, having at least 10 starts under his belt at all seven non-battery positions. He’ll likely start off as the Red Sox second baseman, but his versatility will allow them to be flexible with their infield configurations, and makes him a much-needed right-handed hitting fourth outfielder. Expect a role similar to the one Brock Holt had during his stint with the Red Sox.
Offensively, Hernandez hit .230/.270/.410, and had five home runs and 20 RBIs in 48 games for the Dodgers in 2020. Playing at Fenway Park should help him at the plate, he had a strikeout rate of just 20 percent last season.
With Hernandez signed, the Red Sox have likely rounded out the offensive half of their roster. Pending a splash signing like Marcel Osuna, who the Red Sox have reportedly shown interest in, expect pitching to be the main focus for the remainder of the offseason. Among the names to keep an eye on there is former all-star Jake Odorizzi.
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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.
