The Los Angeles Dodgers have taken care of one of their final major roster decisions of the offseason, reaching an agreement to keep longtime veteran Max Muncy in the fold while welcoming back fan-favorite utilityman Enrique “Kiké” Hernández ahead of spring training.
Muncy, one of the most consistent offensive contributors during the Dodgers’ recent dynasty-building era, has agreed to terms on a one-year contract extension worth $10 million guaranteed that will keep him in Dodger Blue at least through the 2027 season. The deal was announced Thursday, on the eve of the club’s first full-squad workout at Camelback Ranch in Arizona.
Shortly after the Muncy news broke, Hernández who helped the Dodgers to their 2025 World Series repeat confirmed via social media that he, too, is returning to Los Angeles for the upcoming season, bringing back a veteran presence known for his versatility and clubhouse leadership.
Muncy’s New Deal: Stability for a Franchise Mainstay
Muncy’s extension builds on the Dodgers’ recent decision to pick up his option for the 2026 season. But rather than letting the infielder face free agency next winter, Los Angeles opted to add another year of security for both sides. Under the new terms, Muncy will earn $7 million in 2027 with a club option for 2028 worth $10 million or a $3 million buyout if the Dodgers choose not to exercise that option.
The 35-year-old has been a fixture in the Dodgers’ lineup and postseason roster since arriving in 2018 on a minor league contract. Over eight seasons in Los Angeles, Muncy has hit 209 home runs and driven in 587 runs while posting an .828 OPS remarkable production for a player who once seemed on the fringes of organized baseball.
Muncy’s postseason résumé is especially noteworthy. His 16 career playoff home runs and 46 runs scored are franchise records, including a memorable blast in Game 7 of the 2025 World Series that helped spark the Dodgers’ late rally in their dramatic repeat title run.
Speaking to reporters after the extension was announced, Dodgers general manager Andrew Friedman praised Muncy’s contributions on and off the field, noting that his blend of veteran leadership and timely performance has been a stabilizing force for the club. “Max is part of the fabric of this team,” Friedman said. “We’re thrilled he’s committed to being a key piece of our club moving forward.” (Team announcement)
Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts echoed those sentiments, pointing to Muncy’s steady approach in the batter’s box and ability to handle pressure situations as vital components of the Dodgers’ identity. “He’s one of those guys you want at the plate when the game’s on the line,” Roberts said. (Team announcement)
Hernández Back in Blue: Versatility and Heart Return to Dodger Lineup
Shortly after news of Muncy’s deal, utilityman Kiké Hernández shared a celebratory post on Instagram revealing that he’ll be back with the Dodgers for another season. “3 in a row has a nice ring to it!” Hernández wrote, hinting at aspirations for a third consecutive World Series title alongside his teammates.
Hernández, 34, has become a beloved figure in Los Angeles thanks to his versatility having started games at second base, third base, left field, center field and even pitching in mop-up situations and for his deep connection with the fan base.
Last season Hernández played in 92 games, starting 53, and while his offensive numbers (.203/.255/.366 slash line) weren’t eye-popping, he was a clubhouse staple and delivered several key moments in the Dodgers’ postseason march. He provided multi-hit efforts in critical Wild Card and Division Series games and helped the Dodgers close out tense late-inning situations in the World Series.
Hernández’s return has required some own roster song and dance to clear space, as his role though not everyday is valued for its flexibility and experience. According to sources, once the Dodgers make corresponding moves on their 40-man roster, Hernández’s contract will be officially filed.
Why These Moves Matter: Continuity in a Championship Window
Taken together, keeping both Muncy and Hernández signals that the Dodgers are fully committed to sustaining the core of a roster built around continuity and competitive balance. After winning back-to-back World Series titles, Los Angeles entered the offseason with questions about how to retain key contributors while absorbing new stars like Kyle Tucker, Edwin Díaz and others who signed in free agency.
Muncy’s deal fits into that wider picture. He’s among the most experienced hitters on the roster, offers positional flexibility around the infield and continues to rake against both right- and left-handed pitching. Though injuries have limited him at times, his presence and his postseason track record make him an important piece around which the Dodgers can construct meaningful lineups deep into October.
Hernández, meanwhile, brings something that doesn’t always show up easily in box scores: clubhouse chemistry. Teammates and coaches have emphasised his leadership and unselfish approach over the years, qualities that can make a tangible difference over a long 162-game season and deep playoff run. His experience across multiple World Series runs gives him a unique perspective among the Dodgers’ veteran corps.
Dodgers fans have made it clear they value both players. Social media reactions to the contract news reflected appreciation for Muncy’s longstanding commitment to the franchise and delight over Hernández’s return, with some supporters already looking ahead to another title chase. (Fan responses)
Spring Training and Roster Notes
Both Muncy and Hernández are expected to be in Los Angeles’ spring training camp this week at Camelback Ranch as the team prepares for the 2026 season. With pitchers and catchers already reporting, the official workouts begin Friday, and position players will soon follow.
In addition to locking in Muncy and Hernández, the Dodgers have earlier re-signed Evan Phillips and filled out much of their pitching staff. The only remaining questions revolve around depth pieces and bullpen configuration, but with a rugged core in place, Los Angeles enters camp with optimism.
Muncy’s extension and Hernández’s return also offer managerial flexibility for Dave Roberts, who can now deploy these veterans in late-inning situations, pinch-hit roles or tactical defensive alignments without having to scramble for replacements.
What’s Next: What Fans Can Expect in 2026
Heading into the 2026 season, the Dodgers are widely projected as contenders not only in the National League West but across baseball. Their blend of homegrown talent, savvy veteran pieces and big-name offseason additions gives them a deep lineup and pitching staff capable of sustaining excellence over a full campaign.
Muncy’s gritty approach at the plate and Hernández’s utility value could prove pivotal in close divisional races and postseason scrums. Both players have already carved out memorable moments in Los Angeles Muncy with his dramatic homers in October and Hernández with clutch defensive plays and timely hits and there’s little doubt that fans hope those storylines continue.
