Utility man Kiké Hernández addressed his approaching free agency after the Los Angeles Dodgers got swept by the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series.

Hernández expressed a desire to return to Los Angeles but acknowledged that his future remains uncertain.

During previous offseasons, he entered free agency insisting that he would only sign with the Dodgers. This time, he left open the possibility of joining another team.

According to Sonja Chen from MLB.com, Hernández said after the NLCS Game 4 loss that he would welcome another opportunity to pursue a World Series with Los Angeles. However, if he does not return, he hopes to join a winning team.

“I would love to have one more try, trying to win another one,” Hernández explained.

“But I don’t really know what’s going to happen. I hope I’m back, and if I’m not, I hope that I get to play for a winning team.”

The 35-year-old completed his 13th MLB season and 10th with the Dodgers in 2026. He has spent the past three-and-a-half seasons in Los Angeles, although injuries have disrupted his second stint with the team.

Hernández appeared in 126 games during 2024, his first full season after returning to the Dodgers. That number fell to 92 in 2025 and 41 this season.

He underwent left elbow surgery in November and opened the 2026 season on the Injured List. Hernández made his season debut against the Colorado Rockies on May 25 but soon returned to the Injured List after suffering a Grade 3 left oblique tear.

The Dodgers activated him on July 28, and he played without limitations for the remainder of the year.

Hernández remains a beloved figure in Los Angeles. During his tenure, he has delivered more memorable contributions for the Dodgers than some surefire Hall of Famers who wore the team’s uniform.

Reflecting on 2026, Hernández acknowledged that the Dodgers entered the year with considerable expectations but ultimately fell short despite making another deep October run. He also said he does not know what awaits him personally in 2027.

Hernández nevertheless believes the Dodgers remain positioned to win and advance deep into October.

He praised the talent in the clubhouse and emphasized that several minor-league players are close to becoming impactful contributors, leaving the organization in strong hands.

“Obviously we had a lot of expectations,” Hernández said.

“We fell short. We had a good run, but here we are," Hernández continued. "I don’t know what’s going to happen with me personally, moving forward for next year. But this team is well positioned to keep winning and keep competing deep into October.

“So not only is this locker room very talented, but there’s a lot of guys knocking on the door in the minor-league system that can be really impactful players," Hernández said. "So the organization is in good hands. We just, we fell short.”

Los Angeles has the resources to compete annually, but some roster adjustments are necessary. After failing to complete a three-peat, the Dodgers must decide whether to retain veterans such as Hernández or create opportunities for younger players.

The organization will pursue the changes it believes can return the team to the mountaintop following an earlier-than-expected postseason exit.

Hernández went 1-for-14 (.071) with one home run, two RBIs and a .357 OPS in six postseason games.

Hernández’s appeal extends beyond offensive production. Hernández can handle several defensive positions, adjust to changing assignments and remain prepared without receiving consistent playing time.

His personality brings energy to the clubhouse, while his experience provides value during demanding October situations.

He has also repeatedly demonstrated a willingness to accept whatever role the Dodgers need.

That adaptability, familiarity with the organization and connection with teammates explain why another contract remains possible despite his injuries and difficult postseason performance.