2. Kiké Hernandez
Fresh off of a second World Series title with the Dodgers, Kiké Hernandez is slated to hit free agency. Hernandez suited up for the Red Sox from 2021-2023.
After breaking through with the Houston Astros in 2014, Hernandez established himself with the Dodgers from 2015-2020 and faced off against the Red Sox in the 2018 World Series. The Puerto Rico native was a member of Los Angeles' COVID-shortened 2020 World Series championship team.
The utility man joined the Sox on a two-year deal prior to the 2021 season and solidified himself as the team's starting center fielder and often manned the lead-off spot in Boston's lineup. Hernandez lit it up during the Red Sox' 2021 run to the ALCS, hitting .405 with five home runs and nine RBI. His walk-off sacrifice fly in Game 4 of the ALDS set up a date with the Houston Astros in the ALCS.
Kiké Hernández has done it again!
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) October 12, 2021
Red Sox advance! pic.twitter.com/EwqqcvVbp9
Ahead of the 2023 deadline, Hernandez reunited with the Dodgers via trade in exchange for Nick Robertson and Justin Hagenman. In his two-plus years with Boston, he hit .234 with 32 home runs and 136 RBI. The 11-year vet played 313 regular season games with the Sox – appearing at second base, shortstop, and center field.
Hernandez has made his desire to run it back with the Dodgers clear: "I really hope I am back next year. So make sure you talk to (Andrew) Friedman and those guys and let them know." If a return to the world champions isn't in order, Hernandez' defensive versatility should make him an attractive fit for several clubs in free agency.