In a pulsating National League Wild Card opener on Tuesday night, the Los Angeles Dodgers dispatched the Cincinnati Reds 7-2, thanks in no small part to the timely heroics of utility stars Kiké Hernández and Tommy Edman. Hernández, ever the versatile force at 33, cracked a two-run homer in the third inning that ignited the Dodger Stadium crowd, extending their lead to 5-1. Not to be outdone, Edman followed suit moments later with a solo shot off Reds ace Hunter Greene, marking back-to-back blasts that underscored the Dodgers' relentless lineup depth.
Yet the night wasn't without its complications. Indeed, both players were pulled early—Hernández in the seventh after pinch-hitting for him due to back tightness, and Edman after five innings with lingering ankle discomfort. Manager Dave Roberts, in his postgame remarks, downplayed the severity but admitted the tweaks could sideline them for the series decider on Thursday. "They're tough, these guys," Roberts said, "but we're monitoring closely." This comes amid a postseason run where the Dodgers, fresh off a 98-win regular season, rely heavily on such multi-positional talents to navigate injuries elsewhere.
Hernández, re-signed to a one-year deal in February for $5 million, has been a clubhouse staple since 2014, boasting a .234 average this year with 12 homers and gold-glove caliber defense across five positions. Edman, acquired in a trade last summer, added speed and pop, hitting .248 with 15 long balls despite missing time with his ankle woes. However, their premature exits raise questions about the Dodgers' bench resilience against a scrappy Reds squad hungry for an upset.
Moreover, this isn't the first hiccup for the pair; Hernández nursed a left elbow inflammation in July that cost him weeks, while Edman battled similar ankle issues in August. The Dodgers' medical staff now faces a tight window to get them game-ready, especially with potential divisional foes looming if they advance. Still, the win provides breathing room, highlighting how Hernández and Edman can swing momentum even on unsteady legs.
As the playoffs unfold with their unpredictable twists, one can't help but ponder how fragile stars like these hold the key to deeper runs.