"As a guy who has represented Puerto Rico for a few years now, I let him know how much it means to me that a guy with his status decided to help us out and represent us. How much it means to us that he's willing to switch jerseys. He could have easily said, 'If I'm not USA, I'm not going to do it.'"
"While unable to play, Hernandez remains with the team, going so far as to dye his hair platinum blonde, a practice the Puerto Rican team follows during the tournament. The 2026 WBC is even more special for Hernandez and the team - Puerto Rico is hosting pool play for the first time since 2013."
Kike Hernandez underwent elbow surgery in November after playing through pain during the regular season, though he returned for the entire postseason. Despite his injury preventing him from competing in the World Baseball Classic, Hernandez remains actively involved with Puerto Rico's team, attending games and providing leadership to a young roster. He played a key role in recruiting Nolan Arenado to represent Puerto Rico, organizing a dinner with Arenado and teammate Edwin Diaz to explain the team's culture and significance. Hernandez's commitment to the team extends to participating in their traditions, including dyeing his hair platinum blonde. He will attend Puerto Rico's first two games before returning to Dodgers rehabilitation.
#world-baseball-classic #puerto-rico-baseball #kike-hernandez #team-leadership #nolan-arenado-recruitment
Read at Dodgers Nation
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